Healthy Snacks to Keep on Hand This Christmas

Christmas is famously filled with mince pies, rich puddings, chocolate tubs and cheeseboards. 

It’s all part of the fun,but it can also leave you feeling a little worn out before Boxing Day even arrives. 

That’s why it’s a brilliant idea to bring in some healthier snacks alongside the traditional festive treats.

Whether you’re hoping to stay balanced through December or simply want lighter options for visiting friends and family, a well-stocked selection of wholesome nibbles will make your festive season feel brighter and more energised.

Why Add Healthy Snacks to Your Christmas Plans?

December is one of the busiest months of the year. There are parties, late nights, Christmas markets, school concerts, shopping trips and plenty of meals out. Having nutritious snacks within reach helps you stay fuelled without relying solely on sugary or heavy foods.

Healthy festive snacks can help you:

Keep energy levels steady throughout the day

Avoid the mid-afternoon slump

Stay satisfied between meals

Offer guests more choice

Start January feeling refreshed rather than overloaded

Festive Healthy Snacks to Stock Up On

1. Spiced Nuts and Seeds

Roasted nuts with warming spices make an ideal festive snack. Almonds, pecans, walnuts and cashews all work beautifully with cinnamon, ginger, chilli or smoked paprika.

Festive ideas:

Cinnamon and honey-roasted almonds

Maple and pecan nut mix

Chilli and smoked paprika cashews

Mixed nuts with added pumpkin seeds for crunch

2. Clementines and Seasonal Fruit

A box of clementines is practically a Christmas tradition. They’re sweet, refreshing and perfect for balancing out heavier festive dishes.

Other great seasonal fruits include:

Pomegranates

Red grapes

Sharon fruit

British apples and pears

Display them in a festive bowl and they’ll double as decoration.

3. Veggie Platters with Christmas Dips

A colourful vegetable platter is surprisingly festive, especially when paired with seasonal dips.

Try serving:

Carrot sticks with hummus

Cucumber and pepper strips with tzatziki

Beetroot houmous for a rich Christmas-red colour

Celery with low-fat soft cheese

These are ideal for pre-dinner nibbles or Christmas Eve grazing.

4. Dark Chocolate Bites

If you love chocolate, dark chocolate is a satisfying option that feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Try:

Dark chocolate-coated almonds

Homemade dark chocolate bark with cranberries and pistachios

Thin dark chocolate discs for portion-friendly snacking

5. Wholegrain Crackers with Lighter Toppings

Crackers are a Christmas essential, but you can lighten things up by choosing wholegrain or oat-based varieties.

Pair them with:

Light cream cheese and herbs

Cottage cheese with cracked pepper

Smoked salmon with a squeeze of lemon

Soft goat’s cheese and apple slices

Perfect for a simple festive lunch.

6. Homemade Popcorn

Popcorn is one of the easiest healthier snacks to make, and you can add festive flavours to match the season.

Seasoning ideas include:

Cinnamon with a pinch of cocoa

Rosemary and sea salt

A light drizzle of maple syrup with mixed nuts

Serve during Christmas film nights or family game evenings.

7. Greek Yoghurt with Winter Toppings

Thick Greek yoghurt makes a brilliant winter snack, especially with warming toppings.

Try adding:

Toasted oats

Walnuts

Cranberries

Honey

Orange zest

It’s comfort food with a healthier twist.

Simple Tips for Balanced Festive Snacking

Keep healthier options visible and easy to reach

Move the tubs of sweets off the coffee table

Make mixed platters so healthier and festive treats sit side by side

Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Enjoy your favourite Christmas foods, just add balance where you can

Healthy snacks won’t take away from the magic of Christmas, they simply give you more choice and help you feel better throughout the season. 

With a few thoughtful additions to your festive food shop, you can enjoy all your favourite treats while keeping your energy and wellbeing in a good place.

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Bird Flu. Time to rethink the Christmas centrepiece?

With the current outbreak of Avian influenza (bird flu) sweeping through UK poultry farms, the usual festive hero, the turkey, is under pressure. 

Reports indicate around 5 % of the UK’s Christmas poultry flock has been culled so far this season, and heavier birds (typical for Christmas roasts) are particularly in short supply. 

So, whether you’re planning a traditional roast for family and friends, catering for mixed dietary preferences, or simply fancy something different this year, here are some timely and well-rounded alternatives to the turkey, spanning both meat-based and vegan options.

Why the turkey shortages matter

Farms across Britain are facing multiple outbreaks of bird flu, triggering housing orders and culls. 

Organic and free-range flocks are especially affected (because the birds are more exposed) so the premium turkey market is under particular strain. 

The shortage isn’t guaranteed to cause a full absence of turkey, but availability of larger birds and usual price points may be impacted. 

All of this means: fewer choices, possible higher cost, and a good reason to explore alternatives.

Meat-based alternatives

Here are some great meat-centrepiece options if you still want something festive but want to avoid the turkey scramble:

1. Roast beef or sirloin of beef

Beef offers that “wow” factor for a festive roast. A joint of sirloin or rib is impressive, carves beautifully, and allows for wonderful accompaniments (Yorkshire puddings, horseradish sauce, roasties).

Why choose beef?

Beef is a familiar traditional option and suits the festive feel.

You avoid the turkey supply issues entirely.

Carving is straightforward and it can feed a crowd with less effort.

Tips: Choose a good-quality joint (ideally grass-fed), bring to room temperature before roasting, and plan for ≈ 250-300 g cooked meat per adult guest (plus a little extra for leftovers).

2. Crown of pork or pork-loin roast

A crown of pork (i.e., the loin with ribs, tied, roasted whole) makes for an elegant centrepiece with a golden crackling.

Why choose pork?

It’s festive without being traditional turkey.

It offers flavour and presentation (crackling is always popular).

You might find better availability and perhaps better value than a turkey would fetch this year.

Tips: Score the skin for crackling, ensure the skin is dry and salted ahead of roasting, and pair with sage & onion stuffing or apple sauce for a classic flavour match.

3. Whole goose or duck

If you still want a “whole bird” vibe, consider a goose or a large duck. These options are less routinely chosen than turkey and may avoid the worst supply pressure.

Why choose goose/duck?

They deliver a rich, festive flavour and make a statement.

They’re less common, so supply might be more stable (though check early).

They allow for beautiful presentation and guests will talk about it.

Tips: Fat renders heavily (so ensure you have a strong roasting pan), serve with sweet-and-tart accompaniments (cranberries, orange sauce), and plan side dishes accordingly since these birds have richer meat.

Vegan & plant-based alternatives

If you’d prefer to steer entirely away from meat (or have vegan guests to cater for), here are stellar plant-based centrepieces.

4. Nut roast (but elevated)

A well-crafted nut roast is a classic vegan alternative – but this year, aim to elevate it to seriously festive status.

Why it works:

You can build it with a mix of nuts (walnut, almond, cashew), seeds, mushrooms, herbs and maybe roasted root veg.

It’s hearty and satisfying, especially when paired with rich vegan gravy, cranberries and roasted parsnips.

It aligns well with the “thinking differently” theme this season given turkey supply pressures.

Tips: Bake in a terrine or loaf tin for a firm slice, glaze the top (maple or vegan butter) for shine, and serve with a flavour-packed stuffing inside or on the side.

5. Vegan Wellington (mushroom & lentil centre)

A plant-based Wellington makes a dramatic and truly festive statement.

Why it works:

With a filling of lentils, chestnuts, mushrooms and herbs wrapped in puff pastry (vegan), it’s elegant and indulgent.

It gives vegan and vegetarian guests a centrepiece of equal standing to a roasted bird.

It taps into the “occasion” feel and helps everyone feel included.

Tips: Chill the filling so it holds shape when wrapped; ensure the pastry is crisp and golden; present on a platter with festive garnish (pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs).

6. Roasted vegetable & halloumi or tofu “centre”

For a more casual or modern festive meal, a stacked roast of root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, beetroot), topped with grilled halloumi (or marinated tofu for strict vegan) can function beautifully.

Why it works:

Visually appealing and colourful.

Lighter than heavy roasted meat, which may appeal if you want ease and speed.

Works very well in a one-pan or simpler cooking plan (which aligns with your blog interest in one-pan meal content!).

Tips: Season vegetables well, roast until caramelised, add a drizzle of balsamic or maple glaze at the end, and accompany with a richly flavoured vegan gravy to complete the feel of a festive feast.

Accompaniments & sides (that work for all)

Roast potatoes and parsnips: universally loved and give that classic Christmas feel.

Brussels sprouts: tossed with chestnuts or a little pancetta (or vegan bacon alternative) to suit all diners.

A great gravy covers many sins, whether from meat drippings or a vegan mushroom/soy sauce base, with olive oil.

Cranberry, orange or red-wine based sauces add colour, flavour and festivity.

Don’t forget a good stuffing (you can make meat-free stuffing for all) so no one feels like they’ve compromised.

This Christmas, the turkey shortage caused by bird flu presents a perfect opportunity to freshen up your festive roast tradition. Whether you opt for beef, pork, or a show-stopping vegan Wellington, you’ll create a memorable meal that adapts to current supply pressures and caters for all dietary choices.

Christmas Gift Ideas for the Dungeons & Dragons and Gammer Fan in Your Life

Christmas shopping for a gamer can be surprisingly straightforward, especially if they’re part of the ever-growing world of tabletop role-playing. 

Whether they’re a seasoned Dungeon Master or a brand-new adventurer, gifts inspired by Dungeons & Dragons and similar games are guaranteed to go down a treat.

Here are some brilliant ideas to help you fill their stocking with magic, mystery, and a little bit of dice-rolling joy.

Starter Sets for New Adventurers

If someone you know has been curious about D&D but has never quite taken the plunge, a Starter Set or Essentials Kit is a perfect entry point. 

These boxed sets include simplified rules, ready-made characters, and an introductory adventure – ideal for beginners and families who want to have a go over the Christmas holidays.

You can also explore similar starter kits from games such as Pathfinder, Dragonbane, and Critical Role’s Candela Obscura if they’d like to try something fresh.

Campaign Books and Adventure Modules

For players already deep into their campaigns, a new adventure book is a fantastic gift. From sprawling epics to spooky one-shots, there’s something to suit every group’s style. Newer volumes are always popular, but classic reprints and anniversary editions can add a nostalgic touch that goes down brilliantly with long-term fans.

Dice Sets That Feel Truly Special

Dice are to tabletop gaming what chocolate coins are to Christmas stockings – essential!

You can go simple with polished resin sets or treat them to something luxurious such as:

Metal dice for a satisfyingly weighty roll

Gemstone dice for real “wow” factor

Glow-in-the-dark or UV-infused dice for late-night sessions

Dice advent calendars for a daily December delight

A personalised dice bag or box makes a lovely finishing touch.

Miniatures, Maps, and Terrain

If the gamer in your life loves immersing themselves in the world, miniatures and terrain pieces help bring a campaign to life. Options range from simple plastic minis to hand-painted heroes and 3D-printed monsters.

Even a foldable battle map or some reusable map tiles can make session planning easier for a busy Dungeon Master – and that’s a gift they’ll appreciate long after the decorations come down.

Themed Clothing and Accessories

From cosy hoodies printed with dragon emblems to enamel pins, mugs, posters, and wall art, gamer-themed merchandise is both fun and practical. You can even find classy, subtle designs for those who enjoy D&D but don’t always want to shout about their alignment or armour class at the office Christmas party.

Digital Tools and Subscription Gifts

If they prefer digital play, consider gifting something that supports their online sessions. For example:

Access to digital rulebooks

A subscription to a virtual tabletop

Digital dice sets

Online campaign-tracking tools

Perfect for players who travel, move around at uni, or game with friends across the country.

For the Dungeon Master Who Already Has Everything

Dungeon Masters work hard to keep the story moving – so treat them to something that makes their life easier:

A DM screen with handy rules

A notebook designed for worldbuilding

A pack of NPC cards for spontaneous characters

A portable storage case for minis and dice

High-quality condition rings or combat trackers

Even a themed candle – “Forest Path”, “Enchanted Library”, or “Dragon’s Lair” – can help set the mood during play.

Make It Personal: The Gift of a Custom Adventure

If you want something truly heartfelt, write or commission a short adventure based on an inside joke, a favourite memory, or one of their hobbies. Pop it in a festive gift box with some dice and a handwritten note, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind present they’ll remember for years.

Whether you’re buying for a newbie, a dungeon-delving veteran, or someone who simply loves fantasy worlds, Dungeons & Dragons gifts bring imagination, camaraderie, and fun straight to the table. This Christmas, let the gamers in your life unwrap something magical – and maybe join them for a session or two.

After all, there’s nothing like a cosy winter’s evening spent rolling dice, telling stories, and saving the world one encounter at a time.

There could well be a gamer shop not far from you. Just Google "Gamer shops near me" to find out.

How Small Businesses Can Make the Most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday This Christmas

Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t just brilliant opportunities for shoppers, they’re also powerful tools for small businesses gearing up for the festive season. 

Many independent shops, artists, makers, food producers, and service providers use these two peak shopping moments to boost visibility, attract new customers, and increase sales ahead of Christmas.

If you run a small business yourself, or you know someone who does, this year is an ideal time to join in. Whether you offer handmade gifts, festive food, consultancy services, Christmas hampers, or local experiences, you can create simple, effective promotions that help your brand shine in the busy run-up to December.

To help small businesses get started, our sister site That’s Business has put together a clear and practical guide explaining exactly how SMEs and micro-businesses can use Black Friday and Cyber Monday to their advantage. It covers everything from customer loyalty and digital visibility to creative seasonal bundles and ways to boost cash flow.

Read the full guide here on That’s Business:

Why SMEs and Micro-Businesses Should Make the Most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday

https://thats-business.blogspot.com/2025/11/why-smes-and-micro-businesses-should.html

Supporting small businesses at Christmastime is one of the best ways to spread festive cheer—so whether you’re shopping or selling, let’s make the most of it together.

Walking for Wellness This Christmas: A Simple Way to Boost Your Health and Lift Your Spirits

Christmas is a joyful time of year, but it can also be busy, tiring, and a little overwhelming. 

Between late-night shopping, social events, family gatherings and rich festive foods, it’s easy to forget to look after our own wellbeing.

One of the simplest ways to stay healthy during the festive season is also one of the most enjoyable: walking. 

Whether you’re strolling through a frosty village lane, wandering around your local Christmas markets, or hopping onto your home treadmill when the weather turns icy, walking is a brilliant way to support both physical and mental health.

Pair it with balanced, seasonal eating, and you’ve got a wellness routine that fits beautifully into a festive lifestyle.

Why Walking Works Wonders at Christmastime

It supports heart health

With heavier meals and more frequent treats, December can be demanding on the body. A brisk walk helps improve circulation, increase heart rate, and keep your cardiovascular system happy.

It helps balance festive indulgence

Christmas pudding, mince pies, and cheeseboards are part of the fun — and walking helps keep weight steady without needing intense workouts.

It boosts energy during darker days

Short daylight hours can make us feel sluggish. A walk outdoors (or on your treadmill while listening to carols!) helps increase oxygen flow and lifts your energy naturally.

It reduces festive stress

Walking lowers stress hormones and increases endorphins. It’s a perfect escape from crowded shops, noisy relatives, or pre-Christmas deadlines.

It lifts mood through winter

Many people feel dips in mood during the darker months. Walking — especially among twinkling Christmas lights or crisp countryside air — can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional wellbeing.

Using a Home Treadmill Over the Winter Months

Bad weather, icy pavements, and short days often reduce how much we walk. A home treadmill keeps your routine going without stepping into the cold.

Why it’s perfect during December:

You can walk while watching festive films.

No slipping on frosty pavements.

Ideal for short, calming sessions between busy seasonal tasks.

Great for starting or ending the day with a healthy ritual.

If you’re new to treadmills, start slow and steady — 10–15 minutes a day builds the habit without pressure.

Healthy Eating That Fits the Festive Theme

Your body will thank you for small, mindful choices that pair beautifully with walking:

Add extra winter veg: carrots, parsnips, leeks and cabbage.

Keep balanced snacks on hand: fruit, nuts, yoghurt, or oatcakes.

Drink enough water — central heating can be dehydrating.

Enjoy treats guilt-free, but add lighter meals between big festive feasts.

Healthy eating doesn’t have to reduce festive enjoyment — it simply helps you feel at your best throughout the season.

Simple Ways to Add More Walking to Your Christmas Routine

Explore local Christmas lights on foot.

Wrap up warm and enjoy a countryside stroll with your partner or family.

Take a walk after your Christmas dinner — a lovely tradition to start.

Add short walks between festive tasks: gift wrapping, baking, decorating.

Use your treadmill for cosy indoor sessions on rainy or snowy days.

Small steps make a big difference, especially during the festive season.

Walking is one of the easiest and most joyful ways to look after yourself during Christmas. It supports your heart, boosts your mood, helps with sleep, balances indulgent foods, and brings a sense of calm amidst the festive bustle.

With a home treadmill and a little healthy eating, you can feel energised, grounded, and ready to enjoy every moment of the holiday season. My wife gave ourselves an early present of a Reebok treadmill several weeks ago and we have already noticed a difference in our health levels.

Here's what we said about them last month "Why Everyone Should Own a Reebok GT40 S Treadmill This Christmas" https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/10/why-everyone-should-own-reebok-gt40-s.html

How to Use Cyber Monday to Score Brilliant Bargain Christmas Gifts

Make the most of Cyber Monday with smart tips for finding brilliant bargain Christmas gifts. Discover how to save money, shop smarter and get ahead with festive preparations.

Cyber Monday has become one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and for anyone preparing for Christmas, it’s a golden opportunity. 

From tech treats to cosy winter warmers, this is the moment to snap up gifts at prices that won’t stretch your festive budget. 

With a little planning and a few clever tricks, you can make Cyber Monday work for you and tick off a huge chunk of your Christmas list.

What Is Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday falls on the first Monday after US Thanksgiving and has grown into a global online shopping event. While Black Friday tends to focus on in-store and broad discounts, Cyber Monday is renowned for its flash deals, online exclusives and limited-time reductions across hundreds of retailers.

For UK shoppers, it’s the perfect chance to stock up on Christmas gifts without the December price spike.

Why Cyber Monday Is Ideal for Christmas Shopping

1. You’ll Find Big Savings on Big-Ticket Items

Whether it’s a new tablet for a teenager, upgraded headphones for your commute-loving partner or smart home gadgets for the tech fan in your life, Cyber Monday is prime time for discounts on electronics and premium items.

2. Many Retailers Offer Online-Only Bundles

Gift sets, special online bundles and exclusive colourways often drop on Cyber Monday only. These can be great for stocking fillers, beauty hampers and practical gifts like kitchen gadgets and hobby tools.

3. It Helps Spread the Cost of Christmas

Shopping early takes the pressure off December spending. Getting ahead also means you avoid last-minute delivery fees or panic buying at higher prices.

Top Tips to Make the Most of Cyber Monday

Make a List (and Stick to It)

Plan exactly who you’re buying for and what they might enjoy. This stops impulse purchases and keeps your budget intact. If you run multiple festive events or secret Santa swaps, include those on your list too.

Use Price Trackers

Sites and browser extensions that track pricing history show whether a discount is genuine. This helps you avoid fake “was £99, now £49!” deals that were never really £99 to begin with.

Shop Early in the Day

The best deals often launch at midnight or early morning. Popular gifts can sell out within hours, especially toys, gaming gear and premium beauty items.

Look Out for Stacked Discounts

Many shops offer:

Extra percentages off if you sign up to their newsletter

Free delivery thresholds

Additional cashback via certain payment cards or apps

Using these together can turn a good deal into a brilliant one.

Don’t Forget Small UK Businesses

Cyber Monday isn’t just for the big retailers. Many independent makers and small UK brands run their own online promotions. These smaller shops often provide unique gifts, handmade items and personalised presents you won’t find anywhere else.

Great Christmas Gifts to Look For on Cyber Monday

Tech gifts: tablets, wireless earphones, smart speakers

Beauty & grooming sets: great for stocking fillers and luxury gifts

Toys and games: especially bestselling board games and STEM toys

Home & kitchen items: air fryers, coffee makers, heated throws

Subscription gifts: magazines, streaming services, food boxes

Fashion & footwear: winter coats, boots, scarves, knitwear

Final Thoughts

Cyber Monday gives you the perfect chance to save money, shop smarter and get ahead with your Christmas preparations. With a bit of planning and a keen eye for the best offers, you can fill your stockings, treat your loved ones and still stay well within budget.

If you’re ready to kick off your festive shopping, grab a cup of tea, settle in and start browsing, you might be surprised by how much you can save before December even begins.

Age Concern Hampshire Extends Partnership with SNG to Combat Social Isolation Among Older People

Age Concern Hampshire is proud to announce the continuation of its valued partnership with SNG (Sovereign Network Group) to deliver social groups aimed at reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing among older people across Basingstoke, Overton, Whitchurch, Fordingbridge, and Totton.

Christmas can be especially isolating for older people. 

With support from SNG, Age Concern Hampshire will run a variety of social groups that bring people together in safe, welcoming, and engaging environments. The groups focus on physical and mental wellbeing, while creating opportunities for older people to socialise, connect, and build lasting friendships.

The social groups are open to all older people in the local community, as well as residents of the housing schemes. This ensures that everyone has the chance to take part, enjoy the activities, and build connections across the wider community.

Social isolation remains one of the biggest challenges facing older people today. Many experience loneliness due to reduced mobility, limited transport options, or the loss of loved ones. By participating in these social groups, older people can stay active, try new activities such as gentle exercise and creative workshops, and enjoy companionship in a supportive and friendly environment.

“We’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with SNG,” Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire told That's Christmas 365.

“These social groups make such a difference and help those attending to stay active, build friendships, and feel part of a supportive community. Tackling loneliness and isolation remains at the heart of what we do, and partnerships like this allow us to reach those who might otherwise be left behind. 

"We’d love to expand this model to more supported housing schemes for older people across Hampshire, where around 12% of residents aged 65 and over live in similar settings. By working together, we can ensure even more people benefit from connection, companionship, and a sense of belonging.”

Stevie Chadwick, Community Investment & Partnership Manager at SNG, said: “At SNG, we’re committed to supporting our communities to live well and thrive. 

"We’re proud to continue our partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, whose groups are making a real difference to the lives of our customers. The positive feedback we’ve received from customers has been incredibly heartening; these sessions support them to feel healthier and more connected. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that meaningful connection and community support can have on wellbeing.”

This partnership is part of Age Concern Hampshire’s ongoing commitment to support older people through social groups, volunteer-led programmes, and community initiatives that promote wellbeing and connection across the county.

https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Why not look at providing similar services in your area?

Winter market, food, family games, The Youth Zone that has it all

Legacy Youth Zone is hosting their annual Winter Community Day on Saturday, the 6th of December 2025. 

Legacy Youth Zone is a state-of-the-art youth provision in the heart of Croydon and is going to be celebrating the festive season by hosting their annual Winter Community Day. Think Christmas Markets, food, festive fun, family games, and so much more.

Legacy will be opening its doors to the community of Croydon and the surrounding areas for a day to remember and celebrate. Anyone who is interested in going can sign up for a ticket via their Eventbrite page, which can be found here - bit.ly/43ru2mT

They will have activities for the whole family, including Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Stories, Christmas Photos, Winter Roller Skating, Winter Baking, Elf Roulette, Pin the Rudolph, Wrap the Staff, and so much more!

Legacy Youth Zone is committed to providing a safe, positive and inspiring environment for young people from Croydon and surrounding areas. The Winter Community Day continues its mission to bring the community together, support young people’s wellbeing and celebrate the festive season in a welcoming space.

Legacy warmly welcomes families and individuals from the local area to book their free tickets and join them for a joyful afternoon of community, connection, and celebration. Please register early to secure your place.

https://legacyyouthzone.org/

Elder launches national winter care concerns survey to capture the voice of families

Elder, the UK’s leading care home care platform, has today launched its Winter Care Concerns National Survey, inviting families with elderly loved ones to help capture key insights about their greatest anxieties as winter and Christmas approaches.

In 2024–25, flu hospitalisations in the UK reached record levels, while Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remained a significant cause of hospitalisation and death in older adults. The NHS also estimated that 10% of excess winter deaths (EWD) are attributable to fuel poverty and 21.5% to cold homes.

More than two million people in England over the age of 75 live alone, meaning they face increased risks of isolation, illness and injury during winter.

Having facilitated over 15 million hours of home care, Elder’s survey findings will be used to inform care practices, shape policy advocacy and better support older people to remain safe, warm and connected in their own homes.

Elder Founder and CEO Pete Dowds said the survey would act as a timely reminder to local communities, councils and government about the realities that older adults and their families face in winter.

“We hope this survey sparks a broader conversation about what winter truly feels like for families and their elderly loved ones, many who live alone and unassisted,” he told That's Christmas. 

“It’s a reminder that keeping our elders warm, connected and cared for takes a whole-community effort, one that extends far beyond the care sector.”

How to participate

Families can complete the survey via the link here. Contributions will directly feed into Elder’s advocacy, research reports and service improvements for winter care. All answers will remain anonymous.

https://www.elder.org/live-in-care