Diverse perspectives on health and illness - Audio

A short introduction to this album

The notion of holistic therapy is one that is becoming increasingly mainstream. An engaging debate with practitioners explores the pros and cons of this approach.

Many people lack the money to adequately heat their homes. Users and organisers of help schemes in Scotland air their views.

John and Danny, two homeless men, talk about their lives and experiences of living outside conventional society, and how they cope with the difficulties they face every day.

Exploring the work of the Brighton Housing Trust, a voluntary body committed to combating homelessness.

Three women from diverse social backgrounds talk about their lives and experiences with growing old, including employment, family life and bereavement.

Frank Richards was born in the Caribbean in 1931. He moved to England in 1955, and reminisces on his experiences as an immigrant and surviving ill health.

Tom Kitwood worked to develop residential care for the elderly with his care mapping program. He sheds light on the importance of engagement and agency when working with those suffering from dementia.

In a round table discussion, people acting as full-time carers for relatives and loved ones highlight the difficulties and the frustration of caring, along with problems faced dealing with benefits and medical professionals.

Many people are now turning to complementary medicines in place of more conventional cures. Practitioners illuminate their practices and theories and the effectiveness of their remedies.