Winter warmers from RBH

RBH

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) is advising tenants how to keep their spirits up and stay warm this winter.

Although all main RBH offices are closed over the festive season – from 24 December to 3 January inclusive – a 24 hour emergency callout service will be in operation and the number for RBH tenants to call is 0845 076 3636.

Sheltered Housing Wardens and Domestics will be on duty on the 29 and 30 of December during normal office hours. And throughout the Christmas season there will be a mobile warden on duty 24 hours a day.

In addition, operational staff such as gas engineers and plumbers will be at the ready to cope with the extra demand in services over the cold snap.

Top tips for winter

• Seal all draughty areas of your home. You could try using a blanket to seal gaps at the bottom of doors for example. A heavy curtain hung at the front and back doors will also help to keep out draughts.
• Heat escapes from the head and feet so if you venture outside be sure to wrap these areas up well. Wear a hat and extra pairs of socks.
• Ensure you have a hot meal and drink hot drinks to keep you warm.
• Be sure to check on any neighbours who might be at risk from the cold.
• Keep your circulation going. Try any activity – even the hoovering or the dusting – anything to keep you warm.
• It is important to keep the rooms that you live in and sleep in heated and ensure that bedrooms are warm when going to bed at night.
• A hot water bottle or electric blanket will keep you cosy at night but DON’T use both together – you could be electrocuted.
• Light layers of night clothing may be necessary to keep you warm at night so don’t be afraid to wrap up.
• If you receive an income or disability-related benefit or credit, such as Income Support, Housing Benefit or Pension Credit, and either own your own home or rent it from a private landlord, you may qualify for a Winter Warm Front Grant. For further details call free phone: 0800 316 2805 or go to the Warm Front Scheme website: www.warmfront.co.uk
• If you are experiencing financial difficulties and are worried about paying utility bills and/or heating your home contact RBH Money Matters Adviser, Marie Flaherty, on 01706 273 817 and she can talk you through your options.