Helpline
Damp and Mould Action and Awareness Week
19th-25th October 2026
It’s Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week 2026 (19th-25th October), helping to shine a spotlight on the problems of mould and its links to allergy.
As the cold weather bites and people retreat indoors, their homes can unfortunately become places where their allergy symptoms are hard to manage.
This coming winter may prove especially difficult as energy prices rise and the effects of a strong El Nino weather system are felt.
The symptoms of mould allergy include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy, red or watery eyes, an itchy throat or ears and a nasal drip. Mould exposure can trigger wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing – particularly for people with asthma.
Amena Warner, our Head of Clinical Services, said:
Mould spores are microscopic, but their health impact can be severe, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Breathing them in can trigger asthma attacks, allergic rhinitis and eczema flare-ups.
Exposure to indoor dampness and fungal contamination has been associated with as much as a 50 per cent increase in the risk of asthma. With no respite at home from symptoms, it is no surprise that seven in 10 people with an indoor allergy say it takes a toll on their mental wellbeing.
Our factsheet can help people understand and manager their symptoms.