H&F Circle: Action to prevent 'Early Winter Death' in W12

H&F has the highest number of people killed by the cold in London. A shocking statistic and one which I only came across today as a result of an offer of help by the excellent H&F Circle, an organisation for the over 50s which I reported on in January last year. 

Hammersmith & Fulham Circle are working with other leading organisations in the borough on a scheme to help prevent Early Winter Deaths (EWDs). Common causes of EWDs are heart attacks, stroke, influenza, respiratory disease, falls/injuries and hypothermia, and Hammersmith & Fulham have the 4th highest rate of EWDs in the country and the highest in London! These deaths can be prevented. The Council has provided funding for a variety of help from each of the different organisations.

If you are over 65, have a disability, a long-term health condition or have children under the age of 5, then this severe cold can be a real challenge. Hammersmith & Fulham Circle are offering to grit or shovel the path outside your door, measure the temperature inside your home and give you a blanket or a storage heater if it's too cold. They can help buy some shopping, pick up medications or do errands if it's too cold or slippery. And they can accompany you to a hospital appointment, the doctors, or the shops.

All of this is absolutely free until the 31st of March - so if you would like some help or advice, or if you know of a friend or neighbour that could benefit, then call 0800 112 3448 or email info@hfcircle.org.uk for more information

And do for goodness sakes check on your elderly neighbours. Go on, don't be shy!