The good news is that small, practical changes can make a real difference, not just to your comfort, but also to your wellbeing and energy bills. Keeping your home warm is about more than saving money; it’s also about staying healthy, safe, and comfortable during the colder months.

One of the simplest ways to improve warmth at home is by stopping draughts. Even small gaps around doors, windows, and letterboxes can let cold air in and allow heat to escape, making rooms feel much colder than they need to be. Using draught excluders, sealing gaps around frames, or drawing heavier curtains in the evening can help keep warmth inside. These small steps are simple to do and can reduce the need for extra heating, helping your home stay cosy.

Another effective measure is adjusting your thermostat. Turning it down by just 1°C might seem minor, but it can lead to noticeable savings over time without making your home feel cold. If you’re worried about feeling chilly, this works best when combined with wearing warmer clothing or using blankets while sitting still. Wearing extra layers is one of the easiest ways to stay warm. Jumpers, cardigans, and thermal clothing help trap body heat, and warm socks or slippers can make a real difference, especially if you have hard floors.

Windows are another common source of heat loss. Installing thermal curtains or applying window insulation film can provide an extra layer of protection against the cold. These options are affordable, easy to fit, and can noticeably improve comfort in your home. Taking advantage of natural sunlight during the day by opening curtains can warm rooms, while closing them as it gets dark helps keep the warmth inside.

Radiator reflecting panels are another simple way to make your heating more efficient, especially if your radiators are on external walls. These panels reflect heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the wall, helping your home warm up faster. Insulating your hot water pipes is another small step with big benefits. It keeps water hotter for longer, reduces heat loss, and protects pipes from freezing during very cold weather, preventing costly repairs.

It’s also important to check whether you’re receiving all the support you’re entitled to. Many older people are eligible for financial assistance, grants, or energy-saving schemes that can help with heating costs or home improvements. The LEAP scheme we run is a great place to start. If you’re unsure what help is available, a trusted local advice service can provide guidance and support.

By combining these small changes - stopping draughts, adjusting your thermostat, wearing extra layers, insulating windows and pipes, and making the most of available support - you can make your home warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient. Staying warm is about more than comfort; it’s about your health, safety, and peace of mind. A few practical steps today can make a big difference to your wellbeing throughout the winter months.