We understand the emotional strain that separation from loved ones has had on residents and their relatives this year, and we appreciate the important role visiting plays in supporting the health and wellbeing of those in our care.
However, with older people in care homes among the most vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and the devastating effect that it can have on them, we must balance the positive effects of visiting with the increased risk of transmission within our care homes. The very fact that the care sector as a whole has been prioritised in the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccination programme highlights just how great the risks are to care home residents.
We are particularly concerned by the additional risks presented by the recently discovered variant strain of the coronavirus.
Following the announcements by the central and devolved governments on 19th December, we have reviewed our dynamic risk assessments and have taken the decision to restrict visiting at all of our care homes. This is to protect our residents and staff from the new strain of the virus and the rapidly increasing infection rates.
As of 22nd December, indoor and outdoor visits have ceased at all of our care homes until further notice. Window visits may be possible at some homes depending on the following factors:
- Instructions issued by National and Devolved Governments around instruction to stay at home
- Dynamic risk assessments for each resident
Window visits must be booked in advance with your loved one’s care home. This is so we can prepare your loved one to help you get the most from your window visit.
Unfortunately, in areas where stay at home orders are in place, window visits will not be permitted at our care homes.
For the most up-to-date visiting arrangements for your local care home, please contact the home manager.
In exceptional cases, such as when a resident is at the very end of life visits will be supported. Please contact the home manager directly to discuss this process.
