Don’t face winter alone – support is available to help keep you safe and warm
Cleveland Fire Brigade is urging residents to stay safe and warm this winter as it launches its 18th annual Stay Safe and Warm campaign.
The campaign, which carries the message ‘Don’t Face Winter Alone’, offers free support to anyone who may be struggling to stay warm or heat their home.
Following a free home assessment, residents may be provided with practical items such as heaters, blankets and hot water bottles, alongside energy-saving advice to help make their homes safer and warmer as well as onward referrals to other partners where needed.
The initiative is delivered with the support of local council partners across Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough and Redcar & Cleveland, and will run from October 2026 to March 2027.
Elaine Smith, Commissioned Services Manager at Cleveland Fire Brigade, said:
“Whether someone is facing a temporary problem, such as a boiler breakdown, or has ongoing concerns about heating costs, our team is here to help.
“Last year, we supported more than 400 households and distributed nearly 900 pieces of equipment. We want people to know that help is available, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you, a family member, friend or neighbour is struggling to stay warm.
“By getting support early, we can help people stay warm while also making sure their home is as safe as possible.”
Councillor Jan Ryles, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Public Health, said:
“People are understandably concerned about rising energy costs, so it’s vital they know that help is available should they find themselves in need.
“Every year Stay Safe and Warm brings together a range of partners and to ensure local residents have access to the practical advice and support they need to safeguard their health, safety and wellbeing over the winter months.”
Cllr Ursula Earl, Cabinet Member for Health Welfare and Housing Support, at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “As the colder months approach, we know that some residents may be worried about keeping their homes warm, particularly while managing rising household costs.
“The Stay Safe and Warm campaign provides practical support and advice to those who need it most, helping people stay safe, healthy and independent throughout the winter.
“I would encourage anyone who is struggling, or who is concerned about a friend, family member or neighbour, to make contact and find out what support is available. No one should have to face winter alone when help is at hand.”
Councillor Pauline Beall, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Keeping people safe and warm over the winter months is a top priority as we know how much the cold can affect people’s health, especially those with long term health conditions. We’re proud to work in partnership with Cleveland Fire Brigade and support the Stay Safe and Warm campaign which offers so much support to people struggling to stay warm or heat their home.”
Councillor Christine Wiley, Chair of the Adults Services and Public Health Committee at Hartlepool Borough Council said: “No one should have to choose between staying warm and worrying about the cost of heating their home.
“That is why we are proud to support Cleveland Fire Brigade’s Stay Safe and Warm campaign which ensures residents who need support have access to the equipment they need and are safe during the winter months.”
To help keep you safe and warm this winter, please follow the advice below:
- Move furniture away from radiators so heat can circulate
- Close curtains in the evening to keep heat in
- Use heating controls to help manage room temperatures
- Turning the room thermostat down by 1°C can save 10% off your bill
- Set room heat between 18°C and 21°C (64°F and 70°F)
- A room stays warm for 45 minutes after you switch off the heating
- Setting your hot water tank thermostat to 60°C (140°F)
- Draught-proof windows and doors with brush or PVC seals
- Fit a brush or spring flap to letterboxes and cover keyholes
If you, or someone you know, is struggling to keep warm, please call our friendly team on 03067 990038 or visit www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/community/ssaw/ to find out how we can help.
