Support available as temperatures set to plummet

Elderly people and those with health conditions have been urged take extra precautions with temperatures set to plummet in Surrey over the coming days.

An amber cold-health alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in response to falling temperatures has been extended until midday on Sunday.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for snow in Surrey, starting at 09:00 GMT on Wednesday and running until midnight the same day.

Temperatures could drop to -4C on Wednesday and Thursday across various parts of Surrey, including in the Dorking, Guildford and Farnham areas.

The UKHSA has warned that those over 65 or with health conditions are most at risk of illness during the cold snap.

In its winter hub Surrey County Council urges residents to help protect those most in need.

"During snow or bad weather, keep an eye on your vulnerable neighbours. You could go shopping for them or offer to keep paths and driveways clear to help them stay safe and prevent falls," its guidance says.

Anyone with concerns for vulnerable people can contact Adult Social Care during office hours and the Emergency Duty Team for out of hours support.

According to guidance issued by the Surrey Heath and Wellbeing Board, a group which works to reduce health inequalities across the county, homes should be heated to a minimum of 18C.

"Respiratory diseases, such as asthma, are made much worse living in a cold home," the Health and Wellbeing Board says.

There are also over 70 warm welcome venues across the county where people can enjoy a safe, warm environment during the cold weather.

The council's health and welfare support page also offers help, including with advice on energy bills.

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