As winter arrives with its cold, dark nights and inclement weather, spare a thought for older people in your community, particularly your neighbours.

Some older people can feel vulnerable and alone at this time of year and don't want to venture out.

A few small gestures can make a real difference and help people cope better.

You can help by:

• Checking on older or vulnerable neighbours - have their opened their curtains? Are they feeling unwell?

• Calling in for a chat.

• If their path is snowy or icy you could help clear and salt this. Stocks of salt are available in local communities and recycling centres.

• Offering to pick up some shopping for them while you're doing your own.

• Make sure they get any prescription medicines before the holiday period starts and if bad weather is forecast. NHS provide information about pharmacy services.

• If they need help over the holiday period when the GP surgery or pharmacy is closed or they're not sure what to do, go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111. 

If you're worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, Age UK have a helpline on 0800 678 1602 (8am to 7pm every day).  

Helpful information and advice can be found on the NHS web site and they have information about symptoms of hypothermia. 

There is support with energy costs available for older people, disabled children and young people and their families, and people who are eligible for certain benefits.

Resilience packs, with a range of equipment to help communities respond to emergency situations, are available via local groups across North Lanarkshire.