MAKING sure older people receive advice to stay warm and well in the colder winter months is a vital part of Age Concern and Help the Aged’s work.

With many forced to cut back on food shopping, or live in just one heated room to save on fuel bills, it is vital they act now to ensure they don’t get caught out by the cold this winter.

That’s why we’ve teamed up with British Gas to produce a free information pack – Staying Warm in Winter – which also contains a thermometer to help monitor how warm your home is.

Simple measures, such as switching to low-energy light bulbs and ensuring hot water tanks are properly insulated, can have a big impact on bills.

It’s also crucial that older people find out if they apply for benefits such as council tax benefit, Pensions Credit and the Winter Fuel Payment.

Call 0800 1692 081 and order one of our packs to find out what support is on offer.

Mervyn Kohler, Special Advisor, Age Concern and Help the Aged, London.