This winter, thousands of older people will be sat freezing, struggling to afford to heat their home. For some, having to make the unimaginable choice between heating or eating. They are cold, lonely and isolated.

As the rise in cost of living continues to have a devastating impact, for an older person, with little or no support, they face life threatening risks.

Speaking on Heart Radio, our CEO and Founder, Lynne Misner highlighted the critical situation many older people are in, as they keep their heating off and cut back on food items that many consider essential.

For an older person, the cold affects both their physical and mental health. Risks include raised blood pressure, stroke, heart attacks and falls. Being cold can lead to anxiety and depression.  These are compounded by poor nutrition when they are having to choose between heating their home and eating.

With ever increasing social and digital isolation, due to financial pressures, people aren’t getting out and shopping becomes less of a priority.

“I’m struggling. This will kill us by the end of the winter.” - Warm in Winter gift bag recipient

Here’s how you can help.

We have launched our ‘Warm this Winter’ campaign, asking for people to help us provide Warm in Winter gift bags to thousands of older people across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

For an older person our Warm in Winter gift bags act as an intervention. Every gift bag contains essential, keep warm items including a fleece blanket, thermal hat, gloves and socks, hot drinks - tea, coffee and hot chocolate and porridge sachets. In addition the gift bag contains our Purple Pages information pack, which has carefully sourced information from national, county and local organisations, signposting to help and support.  They are gifted FREE to those aged 55 and over.

Each Warm in Winter gift bag costs £35 to source, pack and distribute.

Make a difference by donating towards the cost of a Warm in Winter gift bag, and you can help to make someone feel warmer in their home, less lonely and cared for.

“I felt so alone until you came to my aid and your bag and contents really helped. My heart-felt thanks.” - Gift bag recipient

To find out more and donate please click here.