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 followed agreement by the NHS Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board of its Winter Plan for 2026-27 on Wednesday 30 September, reported in a newsletter on 2 October 2026.
The plan focuses on helping people to stay well, ensuring they 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 they receive a flu and Covid-19 vaccination if eligible, keeping medicines in stock, and knowing where to seek help for minor illness and injury.
Winter Plan
The seasonal flu and Covid-19 vaccination programme began on 1 October for most eligible adults. People aged 65 or over, adults aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, carers and frontline health and social care workers are among those eligible for a free flu vaccine. This year, the flu programme has expanded to include, for the first time as part of the national programme, people aged 16 and over who are sleeping rough or using homeless hostels or night shelters.
Pregnant women, children aged two and three, school-aged children and children in clinical risk groups were offered flu vaccination from 1 September. People who are eligible can book through the NHS website or NHS App, by calling 119, through their GP, or at a participating pharmacy. The NHS says vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family and those around you ahead of the winter months.
The winter plan also covers how local services will work together when demand rises, including GP practices, pharmacies, urgent care services and hospitals. Residents are reminded that pharmacies can help with many minor conditions, that NHS 111 can advise when help is needed quickly, and that keeping warm, eating well and staying in touch with neighbours can all reduce the risk of illness during cold weather.
Source: NHS Surrey and Sussex
