Winter wellbeing
As the colder weather hits, many of us will be making tough decisions about our energy bills and other essential outgoings, and how much to heat our homes. We have lots of support available to customers, to help you stay warm and well in your home this winter.
Condensation, damp and mould
It's important to know that all homes can suffer from damp and mould growth. In most cases, they are caused by condensation, which occurs when warm moist air comes into contact with a cold surface like a wall or window. And there are many things which can increase the likelihood of mould growth, including:
- Drying washing indoors, on radiators or airers
- Taking long, hot showers and baths
- Large tropical fish tanks without lids or hoods
- Not ventilating your home by opening windows, using trickle vents and extractor fans
- Not adequately heating your home - between 18 and 21 degrees is recommended
- Overcrowded properties are also more likely to be at risk from damp and mould - an average family of four can produce 24 pints of water vapour in 24 hours and it has to go somewhere
Our website has lots of information and easy changes you can make to help avoid condensation, damp and mould. Please take a couple of minutes now to watch our short video.
If you have damp or mould in your home, please report it as soon as possible using this form. You can upload photos or videos too.
Keeping warm
Keeping snug and cosy doesn't just feel good, staying warm can also help you to combat some illnesses. Low temperatures can increase your risk of colds and breathing problems and can also raise your blood pressure.
Experts recommend keeping your home heated at between 18 and 21 degrees. Maintaining a steady, warm temperature will also help to reduce condensation and avoid mould growth. Keep the rooms you spend the most time in warm, but it's best to keep a low heat on in all rooms to avoid them becoming very cold and even damp.
If you are finding it difficult to heat your home properly and stay warm enough, please contact us. Our Money Smart team provide a range of support and advice to help you manage your money, check if you are entitled to any benefits which could make things easier, and give you support on negotiating better deals with suppliers.
Eating well
Hot food and drinks help you to keep warm, so try to have at least one hot meal each day. Try to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables each day and take a Vitamin D supplement during the winter months, which can help you to ward off colds and support your body in maintaining health bones, teeth and muscles.
There are now seven community shops across Wolverhampton which offer a range of quality food and toiletries, at discounted prices.
Get out and about
Staying active is good for your general wellbeing, and getting out in the fresh air for 30 minutes each day has been shown to improve your physical and mental health. Winter and the festive period can make loneliness and social isolation worse, especially with the colder weather and dark nights.
You could come along to one of the friendship groups across the city - there's something for everyone, from stay and play sessions for parents and carers of young children, to wellbeing walks and coffee mornings. Or you could visit one of the council's Warm Spaces - they are in libraries and community centres and free transport is available if you need it.