If a person locks themselves in their house and won’t allow anyone in:

• Be aware that shouting the person’s name can frighten them and so adopt a calm tone.

• Gain general information about the person from a family member/neighbour – name, interests, what they did for a job.

• Call through the letterbox using a piece of the information to calm them down and entice them to unlock the door. E.g. If Fred loved dogs, say “Fred would you give me some advice about my dog at home, he’s being really naughty.”

• When they open the door use the general advice.