Catherine Johnstone CBE, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service invites readers to a virtual village hall this winter

A candle on a polished wood table — Photo by Mariana B. on Unsplash

Dear Barnet Post,

Winter can be a challenging time of year for many readers, but we at Royal Voluntary Service are determined to be there for as many people as possible.

We know that shorter daylight hours, cold weather and the worry of heating homes are just some of the factors that make this season the most difficult.

So together with our friends at Yakult, we have created the Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide, which is packed full of the most useful information, tips and advice to support people through the challenge of winter.

I would like to encourage readers who might welcome some extra support and advice, to download or order a copy of the guide.

The guide includes vital information such as money saving tips, how to keep active and eat a healthy diet, how to ensure your home is gas safe, who to call in a power emergency, contacts for mental health support, and where to find essential NHS contact details.

From 22nd – 26th January, we will also be hosting virtual Stay Safe, Warm and Well events, including healthy cook-alongs, on our Virtual Village Hall, a free online activity hub and community. We would like to invite readers to put these dates in their diaries to join in, and we hope to welcome them into our Virtual Village Hall family in the new year.

Details of how to access the Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide, and how to tune into the Virtual Village Hall can be found at www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/safe-warm-well. Physical copies of the guide can also be requested by calling 0800 731 9197, a small P&P charge will apply.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2024.

Thank you,

Catherine Johnstone CBE, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service

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