FOR the fourth year running Fenland District Council is taking action to help people keep warm and well this winter.

It will be providing free information packs to more than 5,000 residents who attend flu clinics in October. The packs include tips on how to save energy and money, grants that are available to make homes warmer and services that can make people feel safer.

The project has the backing of NHS Cambridgeshire and has proved such a success in Fenland that it is being implemented across the county.

In Cambridgeshire each year there are on average more than 250 winter deaths linked with the cold weather. Many might be prevented if vulnerable people received help in reducing the risks associated with living in cold conditions.

Councillor Ralph Butcher, FDC’s portfolio holder responsible for health and wellbeing, said: “With fuel prices set to rise again this year, it is more important than ever to reach out to all our vulnerable residents and prevent them coming to harm this winter.

“Flu can be a very serious illness and anyone at risk is advised to have a vaccination. And by making these free packs available through the flu clinics we hope to ensure that everyone gets all the help they need. So make sure that when you go for your vaccination, you pick up a pack as well.”

Extra help in assembling the packs has been provided by the probation service.