Residents Encouraged to Be Winter Prepared
Residents Encouraged to Be Winter Prepared
Published: 2 November 2026
Residents encouraged to be winter prepared
As the colder and wetter months roll in, residents and businesses across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse are encouraged to be as ‘winter prepared’ as possible.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have launched ‘Be Winter Prepared’ a seasonal initiative packed with practical advice, local events, and signposting to support to help residents stay warm, well, connected and prepared this winter.
It brings together a wide range of services and resources from the council and partner organisations, including community activities, health advice, and support services to help residents through the tougher winter months.
Councillor Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “This winter we are encouraging everyone to be as prepared as possible – this could be as simple as stocking up on a few extra essentials – to following tips on preventing damp and mould and getting your flu vaccine booked in.
“Winter can be a difficult time, but there are plenty of ways to stay active, social and supported. Whether it’s joining a local event, popping into a warm space, or looking out for others, we want to make sure our communities can enjoy the season and stay safe, supported and connected.”
Councillor Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Community Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council, added: “We want to make sure everyone can get the support they need. Winter can be a struggle for many – even before we face things like winter storms. Our aim, as in previous years, is to bring together a wide range of services and activities to help residents enjoy the season – as we head towards the festive period and beyond. From warm spaces and community events to practical advice on health and energy saving, we want to help residents feel safe, prepared, supported and connected this winter.”
Highlights of the winter awareness drive include:
- Emergency preparedness: Get ready for winter weather with tips on flooding, power cuts, and emergency kits. Sign up to the priority register – a free service that ensures utility companies know who may need extra assistance during a gas, electricity or water outage.
- Keep warm. Keep well. Know where to find support: If people are struggling financially or need advice, the councils’ Community Hub is here to help — from food and housing support to mental health guidance. There is also advice on how to make simple home improvements, such as insulation, draught-proofing, and efficient heating, to help residents stay warm and reduce energy costs, alongside tips on how to stop condensation building up and preventing damp and mould.
- Support for rough sleepers: The council activates emergency accommodation during severe weather and works year-round to support people at risk of homelessness.
- Warm spaces: Local libraries, leisure centres and other venues are offering warm, welcoming places to relax, recharge and connect.
- Health advice: Links to the NHS winter health guide offers tips for staying well.
- Stay connected and active: Winter activities and events from group walks to performances and workshops, there’s something for everyone. Visit the Active Communities page or check out what’s on at Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot or The Beacon in Wantage – or take up a new activity at a local leisure centre.
Residents can find all the information and resources on the council’s Be Winter Prepared pages: