It is well recognised now that living in a home that is damp, cold and draughty causes an increase in respiratory illnesses such as Asthma.
In 2005 a ‘healthy homes’ pilot was undertaken in the Rotorua District. This was in response to the research showing that homes which are warmer, drier and free from draughts have a positive effect on the health and wellbeing of its occupants.
All the families that participated in the pilot reported a significant improvement in the health of their families with less hospital admissions, less days off work and less days off school for families with school aged children. They also noticed a decrease in their power bill.
The success of the programme was highlighted in the evaluation of the pilot, indicating how important it was to continue offering this ‘retrofit’ to families who meet the criteria.
This is where your home is installed with ceiling and under floor insulation along with other energy efficiency measures such as draught stopping around doors and windows and cylinder wrapping.
As part of the healthy homes ‘retrofit’ you will be offered a Nursing assessment in your home by a Registered Nurse.
This assessment is designed to support your family to access health services and provide support where required. The team is called:
After you have qualified for the retrofit, a KWKW nurse will phone or visit you and make an appointment to begin the assessment process.
The nurse may:
• make referrals to other agencies on your behalf
• come to appointments with you if you would like support
• Perform basic health checks for you and your family
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