BRADFORD residents are being encouraged to seek help as the cost-of-living crisis is affecting people's physical and mental health.

Reports in areas across the country have found a number of health-related issues caused by rising costs of energy, food other activities in society.

Some people are struggling to heat their homes, often resulting in the worsening of existing physical and/or mental health conditions.

Others are reducing the amount of nutritious food that they buy and are skipping meals due to rising food costs.

In addition, many people are facing increased isolation due to a lack of money to spend on social and leisure activities.

Sarah Muckle, Director of Public Health at City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, said: "While we don’t currently have data that demonstrates the direct health impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, as a partnership we recognise that people’s health and wellbeing, including their mental health, is being affected by the rising costs for everyday products and energy.

"This is highlighted in national reports that provide evidence of how living in a cold home can be detrimental to one’s health, especially for those with underlying health conditions.

"Advice and support for those struggling to cope with the rising cost of living is available at costoflivingbradford.co.uk/"

The website includes winter wellbeing advice on how to look after your physical and mental health.

Suggestions include heating your home to at least 18 degrees and getting vaccinated for flu and Covid-19.

It also encourages residents to stay connected by keeping in touch with people, keeping a list of useful contacts in case of emergencies and looking out for vulnerable friends and neighbours.

Cllr Julie Humphreys (Bolton and Undercliffe, Lab), deputy chair of Bradford Council's Health and Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee, said: "There is a long-term impact on people and this is not just about not being able to eat."

"People are not ringing their doctors because they don't want to be a burden.

"People are encouraged to ring 111 or look at the NHS website for health advice but a lot of people aren't very good at using the internet.

"People should demand to speak to their doctors."

"There is also impact on mental health and the wellbeing of people.

"People get down, depressed, isolated and lonely and often times they don't realise their mental health is deteriorating.

"There is help available in communities. It's about signposting to know where this help is available.

But she added: "Words sound empty when you're trying to make ends meet."

 

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