stay active

Regular exercise is important for your health and wellbeing and will help you keep well. You don’t have to run a marathon, short walks can help you stay active.

Whatever the weather, we can all stay active. There are lots of great strength and flex workouts at nhs.uk to help you stay active. Being active has a long-term positive impact on your health and immediate mental and social benefits.

Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP) have lots of information for adults and children and young people on how you can be active.

SASP also have tips on how you can be active at home.

Age UK also offer a range of activities and exercise classes. You can find out about any classes in your local area on the Age UK website.

Stay informed

Our health and care services across Somerset experience high levels of demand, meaning GP surgeries, hospitals, accident and emergency, community health services, mental health services, social care and our ambulance service are all very busy.

Choosing the most appropriate service for your needs can not only help you be seen more quickly, but can also help those with more serious illnesses or injuries get care quicker too.

Find the right service for your health care need.

People with minor illnesses will be able to be seen more quickly by using their local services such as Minor Injury Units or community pharmacies.

If you’re unwell and are unsure about where to go, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111. Please be patient and choose the right care. At this very busy time, your 111 call may take a little longer to answer than usual but staff will get to you as quickly as possible.

For ongoing or non-urgent concerns please contact your local pharmacist or GP practice

Stay connected

It’s important to connect with other people. Good relationships are important for your mental wellbeing. They can help you to build a sense of belonging, provide an opportunity to share positive experiences and give emotional support.

Check in on neighbours, family and friends to see how they are. Why not try taking up a new hobby as a way to meet new people.

There are a range of support groups and local community groups. Local community centres and community magazines will often have details of groups and activities running in your local area.

• Adult Support Groups – Mind in Somerset
• Carers groups and activities in Somerset

Another great way to stay connected is to get out and volunteer in your local community. It’s also a good way to make a difference in the community – especially during difficult times like these. There are lots of different opportunities available and you’ll benefit too.

Eat well

Food gives you energy, which helps to keep you warm. Try to have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet with the right types of foods is an important part of maintaining good health and can help you feel your best.

Change4Life has loads of healthy eating tips and recipes, and fun ways to exercise. Change4Life is here to help you and your kids eat well and move more.

Find out more about eating well on the NHS website.