Case Study

Mary is 82, and has only a small weekly income from her state pension. She is in desperate need of a new bed, mattress and bedding and she needs help with her utility bills. Mary rents a house on a deprived council estate, and is now in receipt of housing benefit and council tax benefit. Her friends have moved away, her husband died 10 years ago and she has no contact with other family members. She has become increasingly isolated and depressed. Mary feels she has no one to call on for help or company. She lacks confidence and the means to socialise. Her faithful dog, which was her only reason to go out daily, died two years ago. For a long time now her only social contact has been a local taxi driver who collects her pension and takes her food shopping. Mary rarely leaves the house; she has become frail and nervous of the outside world, and is fearful of the crime she often describes as rife in her area.

1. What do you think might be done to improve Mary’s sense of well-being?
2. How is Mary’s living environment impacting upon her sense of well-being?
3. What 3 initial steps would you take to help Mary?
4. How could you ensure that Mary’s rights of choice and control are maintained?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.