Leading doctors urge people across Surrey and Sussex to get “winter ready”
NHS leaders are encouraging people across Surrey and Sussex to take simple steps now to protect their health and prepare for winter, as the NHS sets out its plans to keep people well and services safe during the colder months.
The call follows agreement by the NHS Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board of its Winter Plan for 2026/27 on Wednesday (30 September).
This is the first year that a single winter plan has been developed across Surrey and Sussex, bringing together learning from previous winters with plans from NHS organisations and the priorities for the months ahead.
The plan focuses on helping people to stay well, ensuring they can get the right help when they need it and making the best possible use of health and care services during periods of increased winter pressure.
Leading doctors are asking people to play their part by getting “winter ready”, including:
- making sure that you receive a flu and covid-19 vaccination if eligible;
- making sure repeat prescriptions and regular medicines are ordered in good time;
- seeking advice early if an existing health condition is getting worse;
- making use of community pharmacies and other local services where appropriate;
- keeping warm, active and hydrated during colder weather; and
- knowing where to go for help and using NHS 111 when they need urgent health advice but are unsure which service they need.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer, at NHS Surrey and Sussex, said:
“Winter can be a challenging time for our health, particularly for older people, people living with long-term conditions and those who may be more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses.
“There are things we can all do now to help ourselves and the people we care for. Taking up vaccinations when you are eligible, making sure you have the medicines you need, looking after long-term conditions and asking for help when something doesn’t feel right can all make a difference.
“Our message is simple: don’t wait until you become seriously unwell. Get winter ready now and know where to turn if you need help.”
The ICB's winter plan brings together action across hospitals, community services, mental health, ambulance and NHS 111 services and primary care.
Measures include vaccination and infection prevention; strengthening primary and community care; virtual wards and care at home; improving hospital discharge and intermediate care; and helping people access alternatives to hospital where clinically appropriate.
Professor Rhodes continued:
“NHS teams work incredibly hard throughout the year, but we know winter brings additional demand and we need to prepare together.
“We have a clear plan to make the best use of the NHS services we have, intervening earlier where we can to get the support right now, and helping people receive care in the most appropriate place if they need care over the winter months.
“It is also about being honest that the NHS cannot prepare for winter alone. We all have a part to play, from NHS organisations and our partners to individuals and families across Surrey and Sussex.”
The NHS will monitor demand, pressures, risks and the impact of winter interventions throughout the season.