Stay Well Campaign Launches to Support Cornwall Through Winter

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly has launched its winter Stay Well campaign, focusing on practical steps people can take to look after themselves and support those around them. The campaign highlights how simple actions from friends, neighbours, volunteers and community groups can help keep Cornwall healthy through the colder months.

Community Voices at the Heart of the Campaign

This year’s campaign shines a light on everyday wellbeing champions from across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. These include people living with long-term health conditions who have helped create a series of five Stay Well films.

Aisling Crombie, director of nursing at NHS Cornwall, said:

“Last year healthcare professionals from across Cornwall Council Public Health, the NHS, and local health and wellbeing partners such as our Stay Well champions worked in partnership to develop the winter plan.

“For our 2025-26 winter campaign, we’re reaching out to our local communities asking them to share practical, easy to follow advice on how people can keep healthy, warm and well over the colder months.

“We’re also grateful to members of our long-term health conditions lived experience group who have created and featured in 5 Stay Well films. These films share tips on how to live well with diabetes, lung and heart conditions, helping empower people to take practical steps to look after their own health and wellbeing.”

Dr Tom Hackett, GP partner at Penryn Surgery, said:

“Our communities play a vital role in helping local people stay healthy and well. Across Cornwall, a network of community hubs is offering support, connection and practical help that makes a real difference long before someone might need NHS care.

“Venues such as the Dracaena Centre in Falmouth are at the heart of this, providing a warm, welcoming space and year-round activities that keep people active, informed and supported.

“This kind of community strength works hand-in-hand with the NHS. When people feel connected and know where to turn for help, it prevents problems from escalating and supports better wellbeing for all.”

He added:

“There are also simple steps we can each take to protect our health, from staying home if you have flu or norovirus to stop the spread, to washing your hands, ensuring you have enough medication for the holiday period, and taking everyday actions to reduce respiratory infections. By combining strong community support with individual action, we can all play our part in staying well this winter.”

Champions Share Personal Tips

Paul Sweet, a member of the long-term conditions lived experience group, said:

“Living with diabetes means I need to look after myself, especially over the festive period. Being part of the group has helped me learn simple things that make a big difference, and I hope these films we made will help others stay well too.”

Clare Dawe, also a winter wellness everyday champion, said:

“Looking after your own health is important but so is keeping an eye on the people around you. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference, especially at this time of year. So why not check in with a friend or neighbour, asking: ‘Have you been managing to get out and about?’, ‘Is there anything I can give you a hand with?’, ‘Or would you like some company for a cuppa?’.”

Seven Themes for Staying Well This Winter

This year’s campaign focuses on seven practical themes:

Boost your immunity
Encouraging eligible people to get their winter vaccines including flu, COVID-19, RSV, pneumococcal and shingles.

Stay warm and well
Tips include using heated blankets, finding warm spaces and making the most of community hubs.

Protect your mental health
Ideas for staying connected, maintaining routines and supporting emotional wellbeing.

Eat well
Affordable recipes, batch cooking and small changes to stay nourished.

Get connected
Encouraging social connections and access to community activities.

Stay active
Indoor and outdoor ideas for keeping active even when it’s cold.

Look out for others
Checking in on older people, neighbours and those living alone, and signposting to support like Age UK and befriending schemes.

What’s Included in This Year’s Stay Well Campaign?

Five Stay Well films
Featuring long-term conditions tips. Watch them on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly YouTube channel.

Social media updates
New weekly advice from everyday champions. Follow NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly on Facebook.

Stay Well communication toolkit
Partners can download posters, social posts and more. For access, email the communications team at ciosicb.contactus@nhs.net.

Neighbourhood Health communication toolkits
Packed with festive health information, opening times and guidance for repeat prescriptions. Available to GP practices, town and parish councils, community hubs, libraries and foodbanks. Email the communications team for access.

Dedicated Stay Well webpage
More advice is available via the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.

Winter Wellbeing guides
Updated for 2025 to 2026 and available across more than 96 pharmacies, 52 GP practices, 50 community hubs, foodbanks and libraries, plus an online version.

Community Gateway helpline
Open daily from 8am to 8pm on 01872 266383, offering support and signposting throughout the winter.