It’s a bit nippy outside and there’s a definite chill in the air. Autumn is a reminder to make the most of those cold-but-crisp days, wrap up warm, go for a healthy walk and get those important jobs done before the colder weather sets in.

• sign up for Met Office weather alerts
• check boilers and radiators
• clear drains and gutters
• keep an eye on vulnerable neighbours
• get any vaccines you’re eligible for.

From September, the NHS has been offering a new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of coughs and colds which can be dangerous to older people and young children. The jab is available to those aged 75 to 79, and is being offered to pregnant women from 28 weeks, to protect their child.

Flu vaccinations for children started when the new school year began in September, to help stop the virus spreading. Pregnant women were also able to get their flu jab from 1 September.

From 3 October, flu and Covid-19 vaccinations became available for other eligible groups. If you’re eligible, and you haven’t already done so, you can book your flu and Covid-19 vaccinations with appointments running until 20 December.

Flu season usually peaks in December and January, so starting adult vaccinations from October will ensure those most at risk are protected during the colder months when people gather indoors more, and viruses spread more easily.

If you're planning to use an electric mattress blanket this winter, it’s vital that you make sure it is safe because old, worn or faulty electric blankets can cause house fires.

Next week, our Trading Standards team is running three free events across Nottinghamshire to test residents' electric mattress blankets and check if they are safe to use. Testing will take just 5 minutes and if your electric blanket is found to be unsafe, we will replace it for free.

Appointments are available on the following dates:

• Wednesday 23 October at Newark Library
• Thursday 24 October at Retford Fire Station
• Friday 25 October at Cotgrave Futures

To book an appointment, please call us on 0115 804 4555.

The Covid-19 pandemic affected every single person in the UK and, in many cases, continues to have a lasting impact on our lives. Every Story Matters is an opportunity to share the impact it had on you, your life, and those around you, with the Inquiry.

On Thursday 24 and Friday 25 October, the Every Story Matters team will be at The Council House in Old Market Square from 10am to 4.30pm to help you share your experiences. Every story shared will help the UK Covid-19 Inquiry understand the full impact of the pandemic.

If you can’t make the listening events, you can share your story online.

We’re excited to be joining in with Baby Week for our second year in 2024. We’re looking forward to bringing parents, carers, partners, and services together to focus on the importance of giving children the Best Start in Life.

Baby Week takes place from Thursday 14 to Wednesday 20 November 2024. During the week, there are a number of free or low-cost events taking place across the county, mostly aimed at those who are pregnant or with children 0-5 years old, and professionals.

We also have our special celebration event at The Crossing Church & Centre, Worksop on Monday 18 November from 10am to 1pm.

Groups and charities across the county are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of Local Communities Fund (LCF) grants.

These funds will help towards boosting local facilities, helping with essential running costs as well as supporting people who have fled Ukraine and settled in Nottinghamshire.

If you know of any groups which can demonstrate that their projects will help communities live healthier and more independent lives, please help spread the word. This latest round is open for applicants until Friday 8 November 2024.

Stoptober is back

It’s never too late to quit smoking and you will notice almost immediate improvements to your health when you stop. Your longer-term risks of cancer, lung disease, heart disease and stroke will also significantly reduce. Stoptober is a great time to join others giving quitting a go.

You don’t need to go it alone! You're three times more likely to be successful if you use a local support service. Your Health Notts offer free, flexible support from expert advisors who can provide a range of proven methods to help you quit for good.

Women’s Health Survey

In the UK, women are living longer than men, but spending more of their lives in ill health. In Nottinghamshire, we would like to hear the voices of women to understand what helps to keep them healthy. We will be running a survey to find out about women’s experiences of accessing health services across the county.

Keep an eye out for information about the survey on our social media channels, at our libraries and GP surgeries.

The survey will close on 20 December.

Carers Hub Service vacancies

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Carers Hub has vacancies for a Triage Assessment Worker and Wellbeing Facilitators.

Successful applicants will be part of the dynamic and passionate Carers Hub Service, identifying and supporting unpaid carers.

Hurry, these vacancies close soon!