Winter wellbeing: protect yourself

Following our be weather ready blog, this week we’re focusing on ways to protect yourself during the festive and winter period. 

Your health

Your immune and respiratory systems play an important role in your overall health, helping to protect you against colds and flu, and to mitigate the impact of more severe illnesses such as pneumonia. Data from the UK Health Security Agency suggests that there has been a sharp rise in flu cases recently and are encouraging all eligible groups to get protected. 

As a first port of call, handwashing is a simple way to protect yourself and those around you. Public Health Wales states that regular handwashing can prevent one in five respiratory illnesses like colds and flu – but it’s important to wash your hands effectively. 

Some adults at risk (for example those with long term health conditions or who are pregnant) may be eligible for free flu and Covid-19 vaccinations, and most children are eligible for the flu vaccine. You can check your eligibility for free NHS vaccinations (such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV) by contacting a GP surgery, local pharmacy or by visiting the NHS website (or NI Direct for those in Northern Ireland).  

If you’re not eligible, you can purchase vaccinations commercially. It’s also worth checking if your employer offers reimbursement for flu jabs. 

Please note that the last date you will be able to get your flu vaccine is 31 March 2026, and online booking will close on 30 March 2026. 

Welfare whilst travelling  

If you’re travelling during the winter period, roads and railways are often busier than usual as many people head out to visit family and friends. While most individuals enjoy the festive season responsibly, it’s important to remain vigilant, as crime tends to increase at this time of year - particularly pickpocketing. Higher levels of alcohol consumption can also lead to impaired judgement, and potentially an increased risk of experiencing harassment.  

If you see something that doesn't look right or experience something that makes you feel uncomfortable, report it to the British Transport Police on 61016. See it...Say it (you probably know the rest...). 

For information on ensuring your car is winter ready, check out our initial be weather ready blog. 
 

Scams and fraud  

Scams are becoming ever more prevalent in person and online (including AI generated ones) and are particularly renowned at this time of year. Nobody is immune from fraud and we can all take steps to protect ourselves. Below are some useful resources: 

• The Government’s Stop! Think Fraud campaign, is helping to raise awareness and protect people from fraud, whether that be at home, online or in public places. 
• The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) have a useful webpage on protecting yourself from scams. 
• The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), also has some useful tips for staying safe online. 

If you think you or someone you know has been a victim of a financial scam, you should contact your bank through official channels, and Action Fraud as a matter of urgency. You can report on the Action Fraud website or by calling 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm). Once you have reported to Action Fraud, they will report to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) who will decide what to do next. 

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.