Dunmow residents are being urged to keep an extra lookout for elderly neighbours during the winter months as part of a Keep Warm, Keep Well campaign.

Workers in the health service, social services, the Council for Voluntary Service and Uttlesford Council are distributing advice booklets for vulnerable people in the district.

The leaflets are also available from GP surgeries, health clinics, Saffron Walden Hospital, day centres and the district council offices in Saffron Walden and Dunmow.

Director of the CVS, Gwyneth Southgate, said: "We know that there are vulnerable people who are not in touch with any of these agencies so we ask everyone in Uttlesford to look out for their neighbours.

"If you think they are vulnerable, make sure you know what their routine is and who has a key if you think there may be an emergency.

''You can make sure that they are able to stay warm and have food in the house.

''The Winter Warm Advice Line that you can ring on behalf of the elderly is 0800 085700."

Dr Mary Cooper, a retired consultant in public health medicine who first inspired the project, added: "Even if the winter is not particularly cold, it will be cold enough to put many older and vulnerable people at risk of illness and death.

"Keeping warm means eating properly, staying active and wrapping up warmly, as well as keeping your home warm, insulated and draught-proof.

The message is still Keep Warm, Keep Well."

By Clare Berrett

Reporter's e-mail: clare.berrett@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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