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Your story can help another family feel less alone

Winter affects every family differently.

You might want to share:

  • How you managed during a difficult period
  • Support that helped you
  • Challenges you faced
  • Advice for other parents

Why Sharing Matters

By sharing your experience, you help:

  • Other families feel understood
  • Build confidence in asking for help
  • Strengthen community support

Pharmacy First (Quick Help)

For:

  • Minor illnesses (colds, coughs, fever)
  • Advice without needing a GP

GP Services

For:

  • Ongoing concerns
  • Child health worries
  • Mental health support

NHS 111

  • If you’re unsure what to do
  • Available 24/7

Emergency Services (999/A&E)

  • If you or your child is in immediate danger

Winter can have a strong impact on mental wellbeing.

You might feel:

  • Low in mood
  • More anxious or overwhelmed
  • Isolated or disconnected
  • Exhausted from balancing parenting and daily pressures

Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Health

Stay Connected

  • Talk to a friend, family member, or support worker
  • Attend a local group or Family Hub if possible

Create Small Daily Structure

  • Keep simple routines (meals, sleep, getting dressed)
  • Set small, manageable goals

Get Light and Fresh Air

  • Even a short walk outside can help
  • Sit near natural light indoors if going out is hard

Ask for Support Early

  • Speak to your GP
  • Access NHS Talking Therapies
  • Reach out to Basch Helps

πŸ‘‰ You don’t need to wait until things feel overwhelming.

Preventing Illness

  • Dress your child appropriately for the weather (layers work best)
  • Keep babies warm, but avoid overheating
  • Wash hands regularly, especially after nursery or school

Common Winter Illnesses

Children may experience:

  • Coughs and colds
  • Fever
  • Chest infections
  • Viral illnesses

πŸ‘‰ Most are mild β€” but always seek advice if you’re unsure.

When to Seek Help

Contact a GP, NHS 111, or seek urgent help if your child:

  • Has difficulty breathing
  • Has a high or persistent fever
  • Is unusually drowsy or unresponsive
πŸ‘Ά Supporting Your Baby or Child in Winter

If you are pregnant, your body is working harder, and it’s important to take extra care.

Stay Warm and Rested

  • Keep your home comfortably warm where possible
  • Layer clothing and keep your extremities warm (hands, feet, head)
  • Prioritise rest β€” fatigue can feel stronger in colder months

Protect Against Illness

  • Consider flu and recommended vaccinations
  • Avoid close contact with people who are unwell
  • Wash hands regularly

Look After Your Wellbeing

  • Stay connected with someone you trust
  • Speak to your midwife if you feel overwhelmed
  • Try to get fresh air when possible

πŸ‘‰ Your wellbeing matters just as much as your physical health.

Winter can be a particularly challenging time β€” especially during pregnancy, early parenthood, or when facing pressures such as financial hardship or mental health difficulties.

Cold weather, rising costs, illness, and shorter days can all affect both your physical health and emotional wellbeing.

At Basch Helps, we want to help you feel supported, informed, and prepared β€” so you and your family can stay as safe and well as possible through the winter months.

🧣 Why Winter Can Be More Difficult

During winter, families may face:

  • Increased risk of illnesses (such as flu, RSV, and colds)
  • Higher heating and living costs
  • Less time outdoors and reduced social interaction
  • Increased stress, anxiety, or low mood

πŸ‘‰ These challenges can feel even heavier if you are:

  • Pregnant
  • Caring for a baby or young child
  • Managing your mental health
  • Experiencing financial pressure

πŸ’Έ Coping with Financial Pressure in Winter

We know winter can bring additional financial strain.

You might be worrying about:

  • Heating costs
  • Food shopping
  • Baby essentials

Practical Ways to Get Support

1. Check What You’re Entitled To

You may be eligible for:

  • Healthy Start
  • Cost of living support
  • Local council assistance

2. Use Local Services

  • Family Hubs and community centres
  • Food banks and local charities
  • Support from organisations like Basch Helps

3. Keep Your Home Warm Safely

  • Use one heated room where possible
  • Layer clothing and bedding
  • Use warm drinks and simple comfort measures

πŸ‘‰ If you’re struggling, it’s always okay to ask for help.

❀️ How Basch Helps Supports You in Winter

At Basch Helps, we understand that winter can be a difficult time for families.

We can support you with:

  • Practical help (e.g. baby essentials through AngelBox)
  • Emotional support through befriending
  • Guidance and signposting to local services

πŸ‘‰ You don’t have to face winter alone.

❄️ Winter Health Advice for Parents and Expectant Mothers (London)