Parallel Session B 11.00

Paul Coleman

UKHSA Extreme Events and Health Protection Unit

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) plays a key role in preparing for and responding to the health impacts of extreme weather. The Adverse Weather and Health Plan (AWHP) provides a strategic framework to help health and social care partners mitigate risks associated with heat, cold, and other extreme weather events. While much of the focus has traditionally been on outdoor exposure, indoor environments - where people spend the majority of their time -also present significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.

This presentation will explore how the AWHP addresses indoor environmental conditions, drawing on emerging evidence from UKHSA’s collaboration with The Physiological Society. Findings from joint research highlight the physiological impacts of temperature extremes in indoor settings, including overheating in care homes. We will discuss key recommendations for improving indoor thermal environments, practical considerations for health and social care settings, and the importance of integrating research insights into policy and preparedness planning. By strengthening action on indoor environments, we can better protect public health and enhance resilience to adverse weather events in the face of climate change.

About the presenter

Paul Coleman is a Consultant in Public Health within UKHSA's Extreme Events and Health Protection team, focusing on the health impacts of climate change and other extreme weather events. He works to bridge the gap between research and practice, supporting the implementation of UKHSA’s Adverse Weather Health Plan and Weather-Health Alerting System, including coordination of cross-sector heat and cold alerts. With experience in policy roles at DEFRA and Toronto Public Health, he has advised on extreme weather response planning.