A Watford charity is helping the old and vulnerable stay warm and well this winter.

As part of the joint Hertfordshire County Council and NHS Hertfordshire campaign to prevent cold-weather related deaths and illnesses this winter, West Herts Against Crime (WHAC) is delivering free supplies to those in need to help them keep warm and stay well.

With 2011 seeing 478 excess winter-related deaths in Hertfordshire and the worst weather conditions reported in 100 years, WHAC is doing its bit to ensure locals are protected against the cold snap this year with a variety of warm packs, draft proofing kits and emergency heaters.

Free supplies are available to eligible, local residents as long as stocks last and will be delivered and fitted by fully trained technicians from WHAC.

Jackie Chambers, General Manager at WHAC, said: “With the cold weather already upon us and temperatures set to plummet even further, it is vital that vulnerable local residents make the most of free support measures and supplies to help them Keep Warm and Stay Well this winter.

“Thanks to funding awarded to Hertfordshire we have numerous supplies on hand to help those severely at risk, including blankets, thermal mugs and socks, hot water bottles, draught-proofing equipment and emergency radiators.

"We are also offering people additional free home security surveys and fire safety checks.

"Our technicians are committed to delivering an accessible and effective service to all, so if anybody in the Watford area is concerned about staying warm this winter, we are urging them to get in touch.”

Keep Warm, Stay Well is a joint project between the county council, the NHS, all ten district councils and the voluntary sector.

Funded by the Department of Health, it aims to provide support for those most at risk this winter, including low-income families unable to adequately heat their homes, those living in isolated, rural locations, those living alone, with a mental illness or physical disability, those suffering with serious health issues and older people.

As part of the scheme WHAC is supporting a referral service for those seeking funding to help pay heating bills, or expert guidance on utility tariffs as well as other ways to keep warm this winter. HertsHelp will advise on the special services that are available on 0300 123 4044, or by email in info@hertshelp.net.