East Sussex health and social care staff and volunteers have been  learning about the range of advice and support available for local people this winter, like help to stay warm at home.

Over 260 people attended a series of five events to make sure they have the latest information on what services and support are available to local people over the colder months, and beyond. This will help staff and volunteers give information and advice to people who need it.

Attendees from NHS, council, and voluntary and community organisations had the opportunity to hear from a range of local services that will be supporting people over winter. Presentations covered topics including Pharmacy First, support to stay warm and well at home, getting money advice, One You East Sussex (our local, free health and wellbeing service), tackling loneliness, and the NHS app. The events also helped staff make important connections to other colleagues.

The events were funded through Citizens Advice locally and organised as part of the Integrated Community Team programme.

Tracy Dighton from Citizens Advice 1066 said:

‘’These sessions with staff and volunteers allow us to raise awareness of how we can all help local people be prepared for winter, and to share advice that staff and volunteers can offer during their regular appointments or visits. It’s also a great opportunity for colleagues to meet, network and learn about other services and support available locally.’’

Josh Broadway, Integrated Community Team Programme Manager said:

‘’It was great to see so many people attend these events. The majority of people said they felt more confident to support people during winter and more connected to their local colleagues after attending.’’

Local health and social care staff and volunteers can also still sign up to online winter readiness training run by Citizens Advice. More sessions are running during February:  Citizens Advice 1066 Training

If you’d like to learn more about the range of winter advice and support available in East Sussex, take a look at our recent winter advice article.