Following our last announcement on 4th January the spread of the Covid virus has continued to affect many of our homes just as it has the communities in which they are located. We are nonetheless maintaining safe staffing levels in all of our homes, and we have stepped up testing of all staff still further. In some cases we have taken the step of moving staff teams into the home, in others we have provided additional support from regional and central operational teams.
However, it is with great regret that we have had to temporarily suspend external visits using the visiting pods that have until now been available in many of our homes. This has been done to ensure that no stone is left unturned in our efforts to protect every resident and member of staff. We will however continue to facilitate compassionate visits in end of life circumstances.
The programme to vaccinate residents and staff is progressing well, and whilst availability is not consistent everywhere, we have assurances from health authorities that all residents and staff will have access to a 1st vaccine by the end of January.
Please be assured that in all our actions and decisions, our priority remains the safety and well-being of every individual that lives or works in our care homes and we thank you for your continued support and patience.
