Keeping warm this winter for less

With energy bills more expensive than ever before and the weather getting chillier, the British Heart Foundation has put together these cost-effective ways to keep cosy and safe this winter.

LAYER UP

Wear lots of layers, instead of one thick item of clothing, to keep you cosy and warm.

Thermal vests and long sleeve tops are fairly inexpensive base layers that trap heat.

KEEP DRAUGHTS OUT, KEEP HEAT IN

Try and block any places at home that are draughty. Roll up towels to create draught excluders for doors and cover up keyholes while you’re at home.

Where you can, keep your curtains open in the daytime to let the sun and warmth into your home and then close them before it gets dark to keep heat inside.

BE CLEVER WITH YOUR HEATING

Be picky with how, when and where you heat your home. Try and keep the room where you spend most of your time, such as your living room or bedroom, heated to at least 18 degrees Celsius if you can.

Turn off radiators in rooms that aren’t being used and only heat areas as you need them, such as turning on the heating in your bedroom just before bed.

KEEP ACTIVE

Get moving to boost your circulation. Avoid sitting still for long periods and move around at least once an hour.

When you are sitting down, put your feet up off the floor and get snuggy with a blanket.

SOUPS, STEWS AND HOT DRINKS

Eating your fruit and veg helps to keep your immune system well in winter. Double these up with hot drinks, soups, stews and porridges to keep warm.

To keep costs low, use a slow cooker, microwave or air fryer. And remember, frozen and tinned fruit and veg is just as healthy as fresh (as long as there’s no added salt or sugar) and can be more frugal.

Citizens Advice

www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply/get-help-paying-your-bills/grants-and-benefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energy-bills/

GOV.UK

www.gov.uk/guidance/getting-the-energy-bills-support-scheme-discount

SEE IF THERE’S HELP AVAILABLE

You could be eligible for a grant or benefit to help reduce the cost of your energy bill this winter. Use the QR codes to find out more.