MECC- making every contact count

What does MECC stand for?

Making Every Contact Count.

What is the aim of MECC?

To use everyday interactions to support people in improving their health and wellbeing.

Why is improving health more complex than telling people what to do?

Because many factors are outside individual control, and people have different abilities and circumstances affecting change.

What is the “Health Jigsaw”?

The idea that health is influenced by many factors, with MECC being one important part.

What is mental wellbeing?

Feeling good and functioning well.

List key components of mental wellbeing.

• Feeling positive and in control

• Having a sense of purpose

• Connecting with others

• Coping with challenges

How are mental and physical health related?

Good mental wellbeing makes it easier to maintain physical health, and vice versa.

What is the number one cause of avoidable premature death in the UK

smoking

Is it better to cut down or stop smoking completely?

stop completely

How quickly do benefits of quitting smoking begin?

immediately

What happens in the body after 24 hours of quitting?

Carbon monoxide is eliminated.

Give two benefits of quitting smoking.

• Saves money

• Protects others from second-hand smoke

What is the recommended weekly alcohol limit?

No more than 14 units for men and women.

How should alcohol intake be spread?

Over 3 or more days.

Name two guidelines for safer drinking.

• Have alcohol-free days

• Avoid heavy drinking

Give two benefits of reducing alcohol intake.

• Better sleep

• Reduced risk of disease

Give three benefits of physical activity.

• Maintains healthy weight

• Improves sleep

• Reduces risk of chronic disease

How much activity is needed to see benefits?

Just 10 minutes at a time.

Give examples of simple ways to increase activity.

• Take stairs

• Walk more

• Try new activities

What is the “5-a-day” recommendation?

Eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily.

What is one adult portion size?

80g

Give two benefits of healthy eating.

• Boosts immunity

• Helps maintain healthy weight

Name one practical healthy eating tip.

Swap unhealthy snacks for healthier ones.

Why are immunisations important?

They prevent serious diseases and save millions of lives.

Are immunisations expensive?

No, they are free, quick, and effective.

When should you check immunisation status?

During major life changes (e.g. pregnancy, starting school, chronic illness).

What are the three steps of the Healthy Chat Model?

ASK, ADVISE, ACT.

What is the purpose of ASK?

To explore lifestyle behaviours.

What type of questions should be used in ASK?

open questions

Why is permission important?

It makes the conversation more comfortable and respectful.

What should you do during ADVISE?

• Provide information

• Explain benefits of change

• Suggest ways to change

How should advice be delivered?

• Keep it brief

• Focus on positives

• Personalise it

What does ACT involve?

• Agreeing next steps

• Signposting to services

• Closing the conversation

What are the key MECC principles?

• Ask when opportunities arise

• Advise on benefits

• Act through signposting

• Keep it simple

• Listen

• Small changes matter

What are “door openers”?

Questions or statements that start a health conversation.

Give an example of a conversation starter.

“Is it okay if we talk about your smoking?”

Why are open questions important?

They encourage detailed responses and better understanding.