Winter comes to Waltham Forest
It looks like the freezing temperatures will be with us for the next few days. Our gritters have been out over the weekend and through today prioritising the main roads. We are now working our way through the pavements, cycle routes and parks. Please note that pavements and side roads may still be covered in snow and ice, so be careful if you do go out.
Big shout out to the volunteer Snow Angels, residents who the council provides with salt and clearing equipment. These people help clear the areas we simply don’t have the staff to cover.
If you want a warm space and you can get out safely, please check out the 44 Winter Spaces across the borough. Hosted in libraries and other community and Council settings from Chingford in the north to Leytonstone in the south, they offer a warm, safe environment to get support, companionship and even a warm drink at many, if you need one
We know things are particularly difficult this year and some people are reluctant to put on their heating due to energy price rises. Please take a moment to check on your neighbours, friends and family if they are elderly or vulnerable in any way. And please take care out there if you do go out.
Keep warm and safe,
Grace
Cllr Grace Williams, Leader of Waltham Forest Council
Hollow Pond in the snow this morning
Lea Bridge Library is one of many warm spaces for residents to visit during the cold weather
Winter Spaces are a collection of community and Council settings across Waltham Forest that are open to the public to provide support throughout the winter. There are three types of spaces: Community Living Rooms, Community Kitchens and Libraries, which you can visit to relax, socialise, and grab a hot drink, or learn about cooking and enjoy a free meal.
Head to our website to find your nearest space on our live map. You can also find information on where to get help and support during the cost of living crisis.
The cold weather looks set to last for the rest of this week, so stay safe out there.
You can find useful guidance on our website to help you and your loved ones stay warm and well this winter. Wearing a few thin layers of clothes can be more effective in keeping you warm, for example, than wearing one thick layer.
Please look out for others who might be vulnerable to the cold. Check up on your neighbours and your loved ones often. Call 999 if you think the person you are concerned about is in immediate danger or needs urgent care.
Support is available if you're struggling to buy food, prepare hot meals or heat your home.
Leytonstone, this morning
TfL
Check social media and travel alerts online.
Schools
The majority of schools in Waltham Forest have been closed today. Please look out for messages from your child's school about when they will reopen and find information on school closures on our website.
Health services
If you're 65 or over, or in another at-risk group, it's important to get medical help as soon as you feel unwell.
You can get help and advice from:
- a pharmacy – pharmacists can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses and can tell you if you need to see a doctor
- your GP – you may be able to speak to a GP online or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
- NHS 111 – go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do
In an emergency, go to A&E immediately or call 999.
Rough sleepers
If there’s someone you think may be sleeping rough in your area, you can connect them with local support services by using the Tell Streetlink smartphone app for Android and Apple, or reporting it online. If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent care please call 999 straight away. During the current cold weather, Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated across London. This means councils have opened emergency provisions to make sure people can be brought off the streets into somewhere warm.
Pets
The British Veterinary Association has created special guidance for pet owners in the low temperatures. Make sure that your pets and the animals in your care have access to warm shelter and check that their water and food isn't frozen. If you have an elderly or sickly dog, try to make sure they're wearing a coat or jumper to keep them warm during walkies. Please consult your local vet for advice if you have any concerns about your pet.
And check out the RSPCA webpage for plenty of ways for you to lend a helping hand to our amazing wildlife. Learn more about keeping pets safe.
Brioche the cat finds a warm spot on top of the radiator
Butlers Retreat, Chingford
Find weather forecasts on the Met Office website for your area, including bad weather alerts.
Across the borough our fantastic volunteer Snow Angels have been out helping to clear snow and ice from the footways and pathways in their local areas. The angels receive grit, gloves and shovels so they are ready to spring to action when winter weather is forecast.
We really appreciate our Snow Angels and the work they do to keep vulnerable neighbours safe.
Find out more and get involved.
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