Consultation and Engagement
This section is used to summarise the views of the public, dedicated groups and service users. It can make use of formal assessment of views, such as obtained from surveys, feedback meetings and focus groups.
Respondents to Hartlepool's Big Conversation highlighted several needs relating to modifiable risk factors and falls.
Participants highlighted a shortage of bungalows and other accessible or adapted housing as being a particular issue that impacted on the health and wellbeing of disabled and elderly people.
“Better access to pavements for wheelchairs. A bungalow so I didn't have to sleep on a reclining chair.” Survey respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live)
“Living in a warm and comfortable home with adaptive disability needs for OUR disabilities.” Survey respondent (what would improve your health and wellbeing)
“…New houses seem to be the priority at the moment with estates extending more and more. What about the older generation? Trying to find a bungalow is impossible and none of the new developments offer bungalows as part of their estates. Affordable housing for over 60s needs to be a priority with the numbers in this age category rising...” Survey respondent (how can we work together to make a difference)
“Ive been on housing list for a year now n had 1 bungalow that was suitable went to view n they took it off market as needed so many repairs … only me n hubby residing at address now. cant get upstairs at all for both of. us bills r so high n we on pension credit and still had to fight tooth and nail to b allowed a 2 bed bungalow n like i say over a year n still nothing and u say we need to live healthy n prosper n b independent not in this town im afraid” Survey respondent (why is this priority important to you)
Others have highlighted needs relating to physical activity facilities which may assist in reducing an individual's risk of falls.
The need for better facilities and a greater range of sport and leisure activities was highlighted by many respondents. Respondents commented that this would promote and enhance their health and wellbeing. Respondents said they wanted both formal sports and leisure activities, as well as informal self-led activities.
“Better/modern sporting facilities with full size sports hall.” Survey respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live)
“We need a better leisure offer. Mill House is dated and the facilities offered are poor. My child loves swimming and in particular slides and water activities. Sadly we have to travel to Stockton to access these facilities, when I would prefer to stay and spend money in Hartlepool.” Survey respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live)
“Improve the parks and outdoor spaces and provide better access to improved leisure facilities.” Survey respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live)
Respondents have also highlighted areas of need relating to poor nutrition, a modifiable risk factor.
Respondents also made a number of references to various inequalities, particularly in respect of healthy diets and healthy lifestyles (or lack thereof).
“There are loads of takeaways throughout the town and it is often cheaper to have unhealthy food than healthy. More education about healthy food to children and families. There are a lot of very overweight people in our town.” Survey respondent (what would improve your health and wellbeing)