The Met Office has confirmed that temperatures are set to drop significantly across the UK in the coming days
Households across Britain are being urged to keep the thermostat in their homes at a recommended minimum temperature to stay safe throughout the winter period. The warning comes as the Met Office has cautioned that parts of the UK should prepare for and snow ‘ in the coming days.
Severely low temperatures can lead to or exacerbate a range of health issues and pose serious risks to vulnerable individuals. Those most at risk include people aged 65 and over, individuals living with long-term health conditions, young children, and anyone with compromised immune systems.
Furthermore, additional financial support may be available for those concerned about maintaining adequate heating in their homes according to NHS guidance. This becomes especially important at this time of year, with forecasters predicting a sharp drop in temperatures over the next few days.
Chief Meteorologist, Jason Kelly, said “We’re entering a much colder period with Arctic air sinking south to cover the whole country by Friday. Temperatures will fall well below average, with snow showers and snow accumulations likely, particularly in northern and some central areas. There is also a risk of widespread ice.
“Very cold temperatures will continue through Saturday and Sunday, with minus double figures overnight and daytime temperatures not rising above 0°C for many areas. Wintry hazards will continue, with more severe weather warnings possible. It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week, so it is important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings and plan ahead.”
Recommended temperature for heating your home
NHS guidance indicates it’s typically wise to heat spaces where you spend significant amounts of time, such as living rooms or bedrooms, to at least 18C. However, households with young babies should keep nurseries at a temperature between 16C and 20C.
The main reason for the extra warmth required for infants is to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It’s also advisable to draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to stop draughts from spreading cold air throughout your property.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable. The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.”
Financial help if you’re worried about heating costs
If you’re concerned about the cost of keeping your home adequately warm during winter, especially when temperatures drop to or below freezing, you may be eligible for additional support. This could include discounts or grants to help with your energy bill payments.
For example, you might qualify for benefits such as Universal Credit, which can provide up to £628.10 per month depending on your circumstances – full details about this are available here.
Cold Weather Payment You may also be entitled to a £25 payment from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) for each seven-day period when temperatures in your locality drop to 0C or below. To qualify for this payment, you must be in receipt of one of the following benefits:
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (if you get severe or enhanced disability premium, or a pensioner premium, or you live with a child who is disabled, or you have a child under five living with you)
- Support for Mortgage Interest (if you have any of the following: severe or enhanced disability premium, a pensioner premium, a child who is disabled,or a child under five living with you)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (if you get disability or pensioner premium, or you live with a child who is disabled, or you have a child under five living with you)
- Income Support (if you get disability or pensioner premium, or you live with a child who is disabled, or you have a child under five living with you)
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit (if you’re not employed or “gainfully” self-employed, your partner is not employed or “gainfully” self-employed – you or your must also have a health condition or disability and have limited capability for work, or have a child under five living with you)