Winter is approaching and the Council is gearing up

Oldham Council's plans to keep the borough moving and residents healthy over the winter months are well underway.

The long hot summer is a distant memory and as the temperature has dropped, the famous fleet of gritters are ready for action – possibly this weekend.

Grit stocks, systems and services are in place to meet the challenge if there is a repeat of the heavy snowfall Oldham witnessed earlier this year.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “As in previous years we have contingency plans in place for every foreseeable eventuality, including heavy snowfall.

"We bought our grit supply earlier in the year when prices were lower – providing value for money for residents.

“As far as reasonably possible, we will keep the primary highway network free of ice and snow at all times in order to help ensure a safe journey for travellers and residents.”

At this time of year, thoughts should also turn to making sure we are fit and healthy, so the Council is also urging residents to make sure they get their flu jab.

The flu virus strikes in winter and it can be far more serious than you think.

The jab is free if you’re aged 65 or over or if you have a long-term health condition.

All pregnant women and children over six months of age up to year 5 are also eligible.

The Council is also encouraging residents to keep A&E free by calling NHS 111 if they need non-life threatening medical help.

NHS 111 is much more than a helpline.

Fully trained advisors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and they can put callers straight through to healthcare professionals, as well as arrange face-to-face appointment and assess if an ambulance is needed.

Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “I make sure I have my flu vaccine every year.

“It’s the best way to protect yourself and your family from catching the flu.

"I would encourage everyone who is eligible to have the free vaccine, to have it.

“During the cold weather it is very important we use our health services sensibly.

"By calling NHS 111 when you’re unwell, rather than visiting A&E, allows us to treat those most in need.

“We are doing as much as we can with the resources that are available to us, but everyone can help out in their own way, such as visiting a grit bin and gritting your elderly neighbour’s path or simply knocking on their door to see if they are okay and fancy a brew.”

Residents can find out more about the flu vaccination by speaking to their GP/pharmacist or by visiting www.nhs.uk/getflujab

For more information about NHS 111, visit: www.nhs.uk/111

To keep residents informed of any winter developments the council’s website: http://www.oldham.gov.uk/winter - will be updated continually with the latest news on school closures, gritting routes, locations of grit bins and grit sales.

The Council's First Response service will use its Twitter account @oldhamalert to inform followers of school and road closures or incidents.

These will also be retweeted for residents following the council’s account @oldhamcouncil and updates will appear via the local media.

Schools also have a text messaging system to inform parents if they are closing for the day.

If you require further information about gritting, ring 0161 770 4421 or email: gritting@oldham.gov.uk

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