Safe care home visits - what you need to know
We know how much seeing loved ones means to our residents, and it is wonderful to be able to open our care home doors for covid-safe visits once again.
Some truly heartwarming reunions have taken place over the last few weeks, with the easing of lockdown restrictions finally allowing residents to see a friend or relative in person, sometimes for the first time in a year. The need for PPE and a negative rapid (LTF) test haven't dampened the spirits of their visitors either.
The smiles on their faces say it all.
What visitors need to know
We all have a part to play in following the government guidelines to keep our residents safe during these much-longed-for visits.
Every care home resident is now allowed one named visitor, who can pre-arrange a visiting time with the care home. Those with the highest care needs are also allowed an essential care giver visitor - the care home will be able to advise whether this applies to a particular resident.
When you arrive for each visit, you will be asked to do a rapid lateral flow test (LFT). Provided your test is negative, your visit can go ahead. The home will provide you with a mask, gloves and apron to wear during your visit to keep everyone safe.
You can hold hands with the resident you are visiting, but please avoid any other closer contact with them and maintain your social distance from other residents and care home staff.
This video provides all of the information you need to know before your visit.
Why it is all worthwhile
We understand that it can be frustrating not to be able to interact normally with a loved one when you visit them in a care home, but it's important to remember that the most important thing is to keep them safe. As these photos show, not even PPE can take away the excitement of a reunion!
