The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have announced a amber cold-health alert for the East of England. This alert is now in effect from 8PM on 02/01/2026 until 10AM on 09/01/2026.

Cold weather can affect anyone, and certain groups are particularly vulnerable. These include older people (aged 65 years and over), pregnant women, young children (particularly those aged 5 and under), and people with long term health conditions such as cardiovascular or respiratory disease, or a mental health condition.

For guidance on staying warm and well, visit our cold weather advice page.

Environment and sustainability

The NHS in England is thought to be responsible for 5% of the total UK carbon footprint and our Integrated Care System, has adopted our inaugural Green Plan to address local issues that we can focus on to help make a difference.

We are committed to delivering on the Greener NHS Programme, with the aim of being net carbon zero for scopes 1 and 2 (direct and indirect emissions) by 2040 and scope 3 (supply chain) by 2045.

The NHS in England is thought to be responsible for 5% of the total UK carbon footprint and our Integrated Care System, has adopted our inaugural Green Plan to address local issues that we can focus on to help make a difference.

These include:

  • an increased use of digital technology,
  • green prescribing,
  • changing our purchasing habits to focus on local and suppliers with a commitment to achieving net zero,
  • enabling employees to have a more flexible approach to work.

This is a long-term commitment and will involve regular progress updates and assurances.

Mid and South Essex Green Plan