Last chance to have your Winter Warmth donation doubled

Pat, a grant recipient. Image (c) CCF

This is the final week when donations to the Winter Warmth Appeal will be doubled £1 for £1.

Cumbria Community Foundation runs the annual appeal to help vulnerable older people stay warm throughout Christmas and the cold the winter months. It has raised £3m since it was first launched in 2010.

Money donated to the appeal is given out in grants to older people who are most in need, enabling them to stay warm without worrying about the cost.

Last year over £270,000 was awarded in grants, via delivery partners Age UK and Copeland Age & Advice Service, benefitting 1,570 vulnerable older people across the county of Cumbria.

Eighty-year-old Pat has received a grant for the past five years. She told That's Christmas 365: “I’m extremely grateful. I need warmth to stay healthy, like many people of my age do. I have these worn-out jumpers that I’ve worn in the wintertime, that have really had it. So I wear them in bed, now.”

For the past several weeks, the Foundation has been running a match funding challenge, meaning all donations to the appeal are matched £1 for £1. 

This is thanks to the generosity of match funding champions Allan Stobarts Lubricants & Fuels, Hadfield Trust, Harvey Family Fund, John Laing Charitable Trust, Johnson Fund, Nuclear WasteServices, Roseland Trust, Sellafield Ltd, SP Electricity North West, WCF Ltd, Westmorland & Furness Council and private donors.

All donations received by 5pm this Friday, 19 December, will be doubled.

Ecological Building Systems, of Carlisle, has once again donated to the appeal. Marketing Executive Nuria de la Guía said: "This initiative holds real meaning for us. As a company dedicated to providing sustainable building systems and technical support for low-energy projects, we care very deeply about helping our local community stay safe and warm through the colder months. Contributing to this appeal is a small way we can give back and support those who need it most."

And James Walker and Co Ltd of Cockermouth has also donated. Site Director Mark Rosser said: “James Walker and Co Ltd are proud to support the Winter Warmth Appeal because we believe everyone deserves to stay safe and warm during the colder months. 

"Rising energy costs and harsh winter conditions can put vulnerable individuals at risk, and by contributing to this fund, we are helping to provide essential warmth and comfort to those who need it most. Supporting this initiative reflects our commitment to caring for our community and making a positive difference where it matters.”

Upper Eden Rotary Club has donated £400 from the proceeds of their Christmas raffle and many older people who have received the Winter Fuel Payment from the Government have kindly decided to pass this on to the appeal, feeling others need it more than they do.

Dr Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “Once again we have been absolutely blown away by the generosity of businesses, individuals and community groups. Every single donation will make a difference to the lives of older people in Cumbria, meaning they don’t have to choose between heating and eating this winter.

“I’d urge anyone who has been thinking of donating but hasn’t got around to it yet to do so this week, to ensure your donation is matched £1 for £1 by our amazing match funding champions.”

How to donate

Donate online at: https://cumbriafoundation.enthuse.com/cf/cumbria-winter-warmth-appeal-2025

To donate by phone, call 01900 825760 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Please make cheques payable to Cumbria Community Foundation, writing ‘Winter Warmth Fund’ on the back, and send to: Cumbria Community Foundation, Dovenby Hall, Dovenby, Cockermouth, CA13 0PN.

Had Your Flu Jab but Still Feel Ill? Why Flu-Like Symptoms Can Appear Weeks Later at Christmas

Had the flu vaccine but still feel unwell weeks later? Here’s why flu-like symptoms can happen at Christmas, and what to do next.

Had Your Flu Jab but Still Feel Ill? Why It Can Still Happen at Christmas

You’ve done the sensible thing.

You booked your flu vaccination, rolled up your sleeve, and ticked off an important pre-Christmas health task.

So why, several weeks later, are you sitting there with a headache, sore throat, aching limbs, and that heavy, drained feeling that makes even putting the kettle on feel like a chore?

It’s a surprisingly common question at this time of year, and thankfully, there are some reassuring answers.

First Things First: The Flu Vaccine Can’t Give You Flu

One of the biggest myths that resurfaces every winter is the idea that the flu jab causes flu.

It doesn’t.

The standard flu vaccine used in the UK contains inactivated virus, meaning it cannot cause influenza. Feeling unwell weeks later is not the vaccine “kicking in” or “wearing off”.

Timing Is Everything

After vaccination, your immune system needs time to build protection. This usually takes around 10 to 14 days.

If you were exposed to a virus:

shortly before your jab

during that two-week window

or later in the season when virus levels are high

you can still become ill, even though you’ve been vaccinated.

It May Not Be Flu at All

Christmas is peak season for many circulating viruses, not just influenza.

Symptoms such as:

headache

sore throat

fatigue and general malaise

mild fever or chills

can be caused by:

common cold viruses

RSV

adenoviruses

COVID-19

Many of these illnesses feel very similar to flu, especially in the early stages.

The Flu Jab Isn’t a Magic Shield. But It Still Matters

Even in a good year, the flu vaccine isn’t 100% effective. What it does do extremely well is reduce:

the severity of illness

the risk of complications

hospital admissions

recovery time

So if you do catch flu after vaccination, it’s usually milder and shorter-lived than it would have been otherwise, something especially important during the already demanding Christmas period.

Why Christmas Makes It Worse

Let’s be honest, December is not kind to our immune systems.

Between:

busy schedules

disrupted sleep

cold weather

crowded shops and public transport

rich food and extra alcohol

emotional stress and financial pressure

our bodies are often running on empty just when viruses are at their most active.

That’s why even a relatively mild infection can feel disproportionately draining at Christmas.

What You Can Do If You’re Feeling Ill Now

If your symptoms are manageable, supportive care is usually enough:

Rest properly Christmas can wait

Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm drinks

Paracetamol or ibuprofen for aches and headaches (if suitable for you)

Lozenges or honey for a sore throat

Take a COVID test if you have access to one

Avoid pushing through “for the sake of Christmas” — that often prolongs recovery.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if:

symptoms last longer than 7–10 days

you develop a high or persistent fever

you feel short of breath or dizzy

fatigue becomes severe or worsening

you’re in a higher-risk group (long-term illness, weakened immune system, over 65)

Trust your instincts, you’re not wasting anyone’s time.

A Final Reassuring Thought

If you’re feeling unwell after doing everything “right”, it can feel frustrating, especially when Christmas plans are involved.

But having the flu vaccination still means you’ve:

protected yourself from severe illness

reduced the risk to others

given your immune system a head start

That’s not failure, that’s sensible seasonal self-care.

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe Christmas should be about kindness, including being kind to your own body when it needs rest.

If that means a quieter day, simpler plans, or an early night with a mug of tea, then that’s perfectly okay.

Why Every Family Should Get Their Flu Jab Before Christmas

As we slip into the sparkle and bustle of December, most of us are busy planning festive menus, booking travel, wrapping presents, and checking whether we’ve remembered everyone’s stocking fillers. 

But there’s another Christmas essential that often gets overlooked, and it may be the most important gift you can give your family this season: making sure everyone has had their flu jab.

Why it matters now more than ever

Winter is peak flu season in the UK, and with families gathering indoors,  often with relatives of all ages, from excitable toddlers to older grandparents, the chances of catching and spreading flu increase dramatically. 

While flu is sometimes dismissed as “just a heavy cold,” the NHS reminds us that it can cause severe illness, hospitalisation, and in vulnerable groups, it can even be life-threatening.

Some hospitals are already closed to new admissions due to an unexpected and early surge in flu cases and some virologists are recommending that people start wearing face masks, especially whilst on public transport.

A flu-free Christmas is a happier Christmas.

Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab?

Each year, the NHS offers free flu vaccinations to groups most at risk. This typically includes:

Adults aged 65 and over

Pregnant women

People with certain long-term health conditions

Children aged 2–3 (nasal spray)

School-age children up to Year 11

Carers and frontline health or social care workers

If you’re not eligible, you can still get vaccinated privately at pharmacies such as Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds, and many independent chemists. Private jabs are reasonably priced and widely available.

Why the whole family should get protected

Even if you’re healthy, flu can knock you off your feet for days, sometimes weeks, and nobody wants to miss out on Christmas dinner, carol services or Boxing Day walks because they’re tucked up in bed with tissues and paracetamol.

But there’s another crucial reason: protection for others. Children and working adults often spread flu without realising they’re infectious. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping shield vulnerable relatives who might be more severely affected.

Think of it as a family act of kindness, and one that keeps the celebrations moving smoothly.

How to get your flu jab sorted quickly

Booking your flu vaccination is simple and can usually be done online:

NHS GP surgeries often invite eligible patients directly or allow online booking.

Pharmacies provide quick walk-in or pre-booked appointments.

Schools handle vaccinations for most children automatically.

If you’re planning Christmas travel, book your jab sooner rather than later. It takes around two weeks for immunity to develop.

Make it part of your Christmas preparations

Treat flu jabs like you would ordering the turkey or checking the fairy lights: a practical step that ensures your festive season runs smoothly.

Why not turn it into a family health check-in? Tick off flu jabs, review repeat prescriptions, and make sure everyone’s well stocked with any medications they’ll need over the Christmas and New Year period. It’s amazing how much stress this removes from the holidays.

A healthier, happier Christmas for all

Flu jabs aren’t the most glamorous part of Christmas planning, but they might just be the most meaningful. By protecting yourself and encouraging your family to do the same, you’re giving the gift of good health,  and creating the best possible chance for a relaxed, joyful, sniffle-free Christmas.

Later on we'll carry a feature on simple steps you can take to help your body ward off the flu.

Cost-Effective Ways to Stay Warm Over Christmas

Staying warm at Christmastime shouldn’t mean worrying about your energy bills. 

With the winter chill settling in, many households are looking for clever, affordable ways to stay cosy without cranking the heating up. 

Here are some practical, budget-friendly tips to keep your home warm and festive this season.

Layer Up for Seasonal Comfort

Layering is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep warm. A breathable base layer, a comfy jumper, and a chunky cardigan can work wonders. Don’t forget thick socks, slippers, or even festive fluffy footwear to keep the cold at bay.

Heat the Rooms You Actually Use

There’s no need to heat the entire house if you’re spending most of your time in the lounge or bedroom. Shut doors to trap heat, and consider using an energy-efficient space heater for short bursts in the room you’re in.

Block Draughts and Trap the Warmth

Thermal curtains, draught excluders, and even rolled-up towels at the base of doors can make a surprising difference. Keeping warm air inside is half the battle during the colder months.

Cosy Up Your Bedding

Winter duvets, brushed cotton sheets, and a few extra blankets help create a warm sanctuary at bedtime. Hot water bottles and microwavable heat packs are wonderfully effective, affordable, and comforting.

Keep Moving and Stay Warm Naturally

A bit of festive bustle, wrapping gifts, dancing to Christmas tunes, or a brisk walk to admire the lights, helps boost body heat and keeps you warm without flicking the heating on.

Seasonal Food That Warms You Through

Hearty Christmas favourites such as stews, soups, and slow-cooker meals warm you from the inside out and gently heat your kitchen at the same time. Using slow cookers or air fryers can save energy while still delivering delicious winter comfort.

Use Timers and Lower Settings Wisely

If you do use your central heating, reduce the thermostat by just one degree and rely on timers. Your home stays comfortable, and your bills stay calmer.

Snuggle with Throws and Blankets

A festive throw or fleece blanket can make a cosy night on the sofa even more inviting. It’s one of the easiest ways to feel warmer, perfect for Christmas film nights.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Open your curtains during the day to welcome in whatever winter sunshine appears. Close them as dusk sets in to help retain that warmth.

Fill Your Home with People and Christmas Cheer

A room full of family and friends not only warms the atmosphere emotionally, it literally adds warmth. Christmas gatherings are good for the soul and the thermostat.

With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a wonderfully warm and welcoming Christmas without overspending. Embrace the cosy season, stay snug, and let your festive celebrations shine, without the extra cost.

Looking After Our Vulnerable Neighbours in the Col, Snowy Weather

At least his cup is warm for a minute or two

As the UK endures the braces biting chill of heavy snowfalls, it’s a stark reminder of how brutal winter can be. 

While many of us might grumble about frosted windscreens and slippery pavements, for others—particularly the elderly and vulnerable—this weather poses a genuine threat to their health and wellbeing.

This year, the situation is compounded by a troubling development: the slashing of the winter fuel allowance for millions of pensioners. For countless older individuals, this reduction means an already tight budget is stretched even further, forcing impossible choices between heating their homes and putting food on the table.

Now, more than ever, we all have a part to play in ensuring our communities stay safe and supported.

Why Vulnerable People Are at Greater Risk

For pensioners and vulnerable individuals, the combination of freezing weather and limited resources can be lethal. Cold homes can lead to hypothermia, exacerbate existing health conditions such as heart and respiratory issues, and contribute to severe isolation as icy streets and poor mobility make leaving the house near-impossible.

This is not just a matter of comfort—it’s a matter of survival.

What Can You Do to Help?

Here are some simple but impactful actions you can take to make a difference:

heat. eat or just put on another coat?

Check In Regularly: Knock on the door or make a phone call to ensure vulnerable neighbours, friends, or family members are warm and well. A friendly chat can also help combat loneliness, which can be as harmful as the cold itself.

Offer Practical Assistance: Can you help with grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or clearing snow from paths? Small gestures can ease the strain on someone who is struggling.

Share Warmth: If someone you know is unable to heat their home adequately, invite them over to share a warm space or drop off extra blankets, hot water bottles, or thermal clothing.

Spread Awareness: Let others know about local services or charities that can assist during this time. Many organisations offer emergency grants, hot meals, or even temporary accommodation for those in dire need.

Advocate for Change: While immediate action is essential, we must also address the root causes of fuel poverty. Write to your MP, support campaigns calling for a reversal of the fuel allowance cuts, and raise awareness on social media.

Community Spirit Can Save Lives

The beauty of living in a community is that we are never truly alone—when we come together, we can make a real difference. In this heavy snow, let’s rekindle that spirit of care and compassion by looking out for one another.

No one should have to choose between staying warm and staying fed. Together, we can ensure that no one is left to face the cold alone.

Take a moment today to reach out. Your kindness could be the warmth someone desperately needs.

Boost Your Immunity: Foods and Supplements to Keep Cold, Flu, and Other Bugs at Bay for Christmas

As the days grow shorter and colder, we enter the season of sniffles, coughs, and seasonal bugs. 

With Christmas and New Year around the corner, it's more important than ever to safeguard your health so you can enjoy the festive season without battling a cold or flu. 

Whilst vaccines and good hygiene are vitally important, a strong immune system can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to foods and supplements that can give your body the extra edge against winter infections.

1. Load Up on Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune-boosting nutrients, essential for stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are vital in fighting infections. Luckily, this vitamin is easy to find in a variety of fruits and vegetables:

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are packed with Vitamin C, and a fresh glass of citrus juice is a great way to start your day.

Bell peppers have even more Vitamin C than most citrus fruits.

Kiwis, strawberries, and guava are also excellent choices and make delicious, seasonal additions to fruit salads or snacks.

If fresh options are limited, consider a Vitamin C supplement. For most people, 500-1000 mg per day can give a good boost, but consult your GP if you're considering higher doses.

2. Don’t Forget Zinc

Zinc is another powerful ally against colds. It can help reduce the duration of cold symptoms if taken at the first sign of illness. You can find zinc in foods like:

Red meat, poultry, and shellfish (especially oysters) are rich in zinc.

Pumpkin seeds, beans, and chickpeas provide a vegetarian-friendly zinc source.

For a preventive boost, consider a daily zinc supplement, especially during peak cold and flu season.

3. Boost Your Vitamin D Levels

In the UK, where sunshine can be scarce during the winter months, many people become deficient in Vitamin D. This vitamin plays a critical role in immune function, helping to prevent infections and fight viruses. Foods high in Vitamin D include:

Oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines)

Egg yolks and fortified cereals

Mushrooms (especially those exposed to sunlight)

For many, a Vitamin D supplement is necessary during the winter. The NHS recommends adults consider a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) during autumn and winter.

4. Probiotics: Support Your Gut Health

Did you know that a large portion of your immune system resides in your gut? Healthy gut flora help regulate immune responses and protect against harmful pathogens. Foods rich in probiotics can boost gut health and improve your immune defences:

Yoghurt, especially those with live cultures, is a good source of beneficial bacteria.

Kefir and kombucha also provide diverse strains of probiotics.

Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles are tangy and immune-friendly.

Consider a probiotic supplement if you’re not a fan of fermented foods. Look for one with multiple strains and a high colony-forming unit (CFU) count for maximum benefit.

5. Spice It Up with Garlic and Ginger

Garlic and ginger are two pantry powerhouses that offer incredible immune-supporting properties:

Garlic is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it effective against colds. Try adding it to soups, stews, or even roasted veg.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It can soothe sore throats and aid digestion. A warming ginger tea with honey can help relieve early cold symptoms.

Both garlic and ginger supplements are available, but fresh options often provide the best benefit.

6. Go Green with Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support the immune system. They’re rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate—all important for cell repair and protection. You can incorporate greens into smoothies, soups, or even as a side dish to keep your immune system in top form.

7. Add Elderberry and Echinacea for Extra Protection

Elderberry and echinacea are two herbal supplements often associated with fighting respiratory infections. Research suggests they may help reduce the severity and length of colds:

Elderberry is packed with antioxidants and is thought to combat viruses directly. Syrup or capsules are both convenient options.

Echinacea is often taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule and may help reduce inflammation and cold symptoms.

Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your GP if you have any underlying conditions before adding these herbs to your routine.

8. Hydrate with Herbal Teas and Bone Broth

Staying hydrated is key to keeping your immune system strong, as it helps flush out toxins and maintain mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. A few immune-boosting drinks to keep on hand include:

Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and green tea offer antioxidants and soothing effects.

Bone broth is nutrient-dense, providing amino acids and minerals that help support immune function and gut health.

If you’re feeling under the weather, warm drinks also help relieve sore throats and congestion.

9. Sleep and Stress Management

While not a food or supplement, quality sleep and stress management are vital for a strong immune system. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can lower immune defences, making it easier for colds and flu to take hold. Try practising mindfulness, meditation, or light exercise, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your immune system resilient.

In Summary

With the right combination of nutrient-rich foods and well-chosen supplements, you can help your body fend off common colds, flu, and other infections this winter. As you prepare for a cosy Christmas and New Year, taking these small steps will ensure you’re well-protected and ready to enjoy the festivities in good health.

Disclaimer: This guide is meant for general health information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your GP before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.

Looking Out for the Vulnerable This Christmas: A Call for Compassion and Support

As the festive season approaches, our hearts naturally turn to the spirit of giving and togetherness. For many, Christmas is a time of warmth, family gatherings, and festive joy. 

However, for some of the most vulnerable members of our society, this time of year can bring additional challenges, particularly with the government’s recent decision to cancel the Winter Fuel Allowance, a move that will affect many pensioners, including 1.6 million disabled pensioners. 

This drastic cut in support places elderly and disabled individuals in even more precarious positions, and it falls upon all of us to help where we can.

The Importance of Community Support

The elderly, especially those who are disabled or living alone, are often at risk of isolation during the winter months. The cancellation of the Winter Fuel Allowance may leave many facing difficult choices: do they heat their homes, or do they put food on the table? No one should be forced into such dire circumstances, but unfortunately, this will become the reality for many. Without the vital financial support that the allowance provided, energy bills will likely become unmanageable, exacerbating an already challenging cost-of-living crisis.

This Christmas, we must come together as a community to ensure that our elderly and disabled neighbours are not left behind. While the government may have withdrawn this crucial support, we can still make a difference by extending a hand of friendship, warmth, and compassion.

Practical Ways to Help

Here are some practical steps we can take to support the elderly and vulnerable in our communities:

Check in on Neighbours: A simple knock on the door or a phone call can make a world of difference. Ask if they need help with grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or even just a chat to break the loneliness.

Offer to Help with Heating Costs: If you're able to, consider donating to local charities that provide assistance with heating bills. Many organisations are stepping up to fill the gap left by the cancelled allowance, and every little bit helps. If you know someone personally who may be struggling, a discreet offer of help could ease their burden.

Donate Warm Clothing and Blankets: As temperatures drop, access to warm clothing and blankets can make a significant difference for those who are struggling to keep their homes heated. Local shelters, churches, and community centres often organise winter clothing drives, and your contributions could provide much-needed comfort.

Volunteer Your Time: Many local charities are running programmes to support the elderly during winter. From delivering hot meals to providing transport for medical appointments, there are numerous ways to get involved. Your time could be the greatest gift of all.

Spread Awareness: With the cancellation of the Winter Fuel Allowance, it’s important that we raise awareness about the plight of vulnerable individuals. Use social media to share information about local initiatives and encourage others to get involved.

The Impact of the Winter Fuel Allowance Cancellation

The loss of the Winter Fuel Allowance will hit some of the most vulnerable the hardest. For 1.6 million disabled pensioners, this financial lifeline helped them manage the cost of heating during the coldest months. Without it, many will face a greater risk of health complications related to cold weather, such as hypothermia, respiratory infections, and exacerbated conditions like arthritis or cardiovascular disease.

The lack of government support highlights the need for a stronger community response. While it’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such a large-scale issue, collective action can make a real difference. Every small act of kindness, every donation, and every effort to check in on a vulnerable person contributes to a safer, more supportive environment for those in need.

The True Spirit of Christmas

At its core, Christmas is about giving, kindness, and bringing light to those in dark times. This year, more than ever, we must embody that spirit by ensuring that the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable members of our society are not forgotten. Whether it’s through a simple gesture of friendship or a larger effort to support charities and organisations, every action counts.

In the face of government cutbacks, our communities must rise to the challenge of supporting one another. As we celebrate the festive season, let’s remember that the greatest gift we can offer is our care and compassion for those who need it most.

This Christmas, let’s look out for one another, ensuring that no one has to choose between warmth and well-being. Together, we can make this season a little brighter for everyone.

https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/news/16-million-disabled-pensioners-set-lose-winter-fuel-payments

https://www.ageuk.org.uk

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