Be Winter Prepared: New guide and drop-in events to help residents stay warm, well, and safe
As temperatures fall and winter approaches, St Helens Borough Council is helping residents stay warm, well, and safe with a new Be Winter Prepared guide.
Article date: 6 November 2026
The comprehensive guide contains lots of information to help you plan ahead, be prepared, and access the advice and support that can keep you going throughout the winter months.
The Be Winter Prepared guide includes seven simple tips to help residents stay well over the colder months, including keeping vaccinations up to date, preventing the spread of winter illnesses, eating well, staying hydrated, keeping homes warm, taking extra care outdoors and looking out for vulnerable friends, family and neighbours. Residents are also encouraged to seek advice early if they are worried about heating costs or need extra support during winter.
Alongside the Be Winter Prepared guide's launch, the council's Affordable Warmth and Welfare Team is hosting a series of drop-in events, where you can get help with reducing your energy bills, keeping your home warm and safe, accessing grants and financial support, and other practical tips and advice.
If you or someone you know could use some extra support this winter, come along for free advice and a warm welcome at:
Eccleston Library: Monday 9 November 2026, 1pm to 4pm
Community Hub North (Moss Bank Library)*: Monday 16 November 2026, 10am to 12.30pm
Thatto Heath Library: Monday 23 November 2026, 1pm to 4pm
Rainhill Village Hall: Wednesday 25 November 2026, 10am to 2pm
Haydock Library: Thursday 26 November 2026, 10am to 1pm
Community Hub South (Chester Lane Library)*: Tuesday 1 December 2026, 10am to 12.30pm
Rainford Village Hall: Thursday 3 December 2026, 12pm to 3pm
Newton Community Centre: Friday 11 December 2026, 10am to 12pm
Community Hub North (Moss Bank Library)*: Monday 21 December 2026, 10am to 12.30pm
* Community Hubs also provide access to a wide range of council and partner services, advice and support in one convenient location.
Councillor Sharon Roughley, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:
"Winter can be a particularly difficult time for many households. We spend more to keep our homes warm, we fall ill, and we worry about our older family, friends and neighbours. And often we don't know where to turn for help, or even that we can.
"Our Be Winter Prepared guide brings together practical advice, local support and useful information in one place, making it easier for residents to access the help available. I'd encourage anyone who's concerned about staying warm or managing costs this winter to pick up a guide or come along to one of our drop-in sessions."
Councillor Eileen Fleming, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, said:
"Being prepared for winter is about more than keeping your home warm. It's also about taking simple steps to protect your health and wellbeing and looking out for those around you.
"Getting vaccinated, staying connected with friends and neighbours, and seeking advice and support when you need it are all small actions that can make a big difference. We're ensuring that residents have the information and confidence they need to stay safe, healthy and well throughout the winter months."
For more tips and information on staying warm, well, and safe this winter visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/sthelenstogether where you can find the Be Winter Prepared guide and drop in events.