Pearle Part 3 Reflective Exercises
Taking Action
So far we have considered how we identify people at risk of being cold in their home, and we have thought about what influences their decisions and behaviour. In Part 3 we would like you to think about what action needs to be taken to improve the situation for people like Pearle. It is important to take on board and act on appropriate information. We have to consider what sources of information people trust. Clear and consistent messages are necessary to gain trust and promote behaviour change.
Part 3 Question 1
Reflections on Question 1
Part 3 Question 2
Reflections on Question 2
Having thought about how to identify people at risk and understand their behaviour, it is now important to consider what can be done to encourage older people to keep their house warm. Living on her own and not welcoming company means that it can be hard to give information and help to Pearle in a way that is acceptable to her. Local radio and newspaper campaigns may help to inform her and correct some of the myths and misunderstanding she has about heating the home and paying for fuel. The library can also be a point to give information. It may also be worth finding ways to increase awareness of families so they are more vigilant to signs that their relative isn't coping as well in the house or is "putting a brave face on things".
Developing local partnerships can help to develop and deliver clear and consistent messages from acceptable and accessible sources.
| Some examples of what others could do | What could you do? This will depend on your role |
| Consistent messages addressing and correcting beliefs e.g. the negative health impact of a cold home using radio, papers and TV | |
| Targeted affordable warmth information to older people at key points in their life e.g. retirement, onset of new chronic/ long term condition, bereavement | |
| Targeted affordable warmth information to older people from energy companies with the energy bill | |
| Room thermometers provided at routine contact with health professionals and local services e.g. flu jab, and libraries | |
| Social prescribing schemes for example where a GP or practice nurse would refer a patient for energy efficiency advice | |
| Raising awareness of family |