A new report, published by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), looks into the risks of summertime overheating and the readiness level of care facilities, with respect to the consequences of climate change. The report reviews existing evidence and presents primary research in four case study care settings (two residential and two extra care) geographically spread across England.

The study found that overheating is a current risk that is likely to be exacerbated in the future due to climate change.  The health risks posed by excessive heat need to be prioritised alongside the risks to health from cold and recognised by designers, development teams, care home managers and staff. The implementation of long term strategies to provide suitable adaptation methods require input  from designers, care home commissioners and development teams, asset/service managers, onsite managers and care staff and residents, as well as support such as enhanced regulations, standards and guidance from key national health and care bodies and central Government.

The full report is freely accessible at the JRF website: https://www.jrf.org.uk/report/care-provision-fit-future-climate#jl_downloads_0