31 January 2012
No matter how freezing cold it gets this week, hundreds of older residents in Bolton will still be snug and warm after our volunteers deliver special winter packs to their homes.
A new government scheme will see 1,000 of the new winter packs delivered to vulnerable older people over the next couple of weeks.
Each ‘hug in a box’ – as they are affectionately known – contains an electric blanket, a hat, scarf and glove set, and food that can be easily heated up and save a chilly trip to the shops.
‘Fantastic idea’
Shrugging off sub-zero temperatures, volunteers will be heading out to distribute at least 200 packs to people identified as being vulnerable and needing extra help by Bolton Council. At the council’s request, the Red Cross will also be running special first aid sessions for 40 vulnerable groups.
Stewart Knowles, business development manager, said: "The winter packs are a fantastic idea and I'm sure people will be really glad to be getting them.
"Some of the packs will be handed out at group meetings, which means we’ll also have an opportunity to teach potentially life-saving first aid skills. That could make a big difference if the weather worsens and someone has a fall."
Home visits
Just up the road in Trafford, volunteers are making home visits and phone calls to vulnerable residents to check everything’s okay, and see what practical support they might be able to offer if the weather gets worse.
And in Liverpool, volunteers are preparing to clear people’s driveways – and even transport them to hospitals in 4x4 vehicles, if necessary – when the heavy snows arrive.
Make sure you're ready for winter