Temperatures have fallen in the last week to the extent cold weather payments have been triggered across the Brentwood and Ongar constituency. I have no doubt these will be welcomed by recipients as the cost of trying to keep warm at home at the moment is one of the key factors in the current rise in the cost of living.
The snow this week has added another level of excitement or inconvenience, depending on your age and need to travel.
As always in Brentwood and Ongar, there are those doing all they can to help those in most need. This includes opening up libraries, cafes, parish halls and Scout huts as warm places for those who need somewhere to go during the day without having to put the heating on at home all day. You can find details of all the places which are open on the Brentwood Borough Council and Epping Forest District Council websites:
https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/warm-welcome-hubs
https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/cost-of-living/warm-places/
It’s two years this week since the Government’s Covid vaccination roll-out began, protecting the most vulnerable from the worst effects of the virus. The jab is still the best protection against getting seriously ill from the virus, so if you’re eligible for a booster, book now – you can also top up your immunity against flu at the same time: nhs.uk/wintervaccinations
This will be my last column for the Brentwood Gazette before the New Year, so I hope you and yours make the most of family and friends over the festive season, I know the good people of Brentwood and Ongar will reach out to those who find this time of year difficult and off help to those in need. Have a wonderful Christmas, and all very best wishes for 2023.
