For several months now, many of the people in our local care homes have had to endure lockdown without seeing or speaking to their relatives face-to-face. We realise that this has been an incredibly difficult time for everyone, but especially so for those living in care homes and their loved ones.
As the Government looks to ease the rules around care home visits, we’re working closely with local care homes to manage this safely.
It is very important that people do not flock to see their loved ones just yet. Care homes are currently working with public health advisors to put measures in place to safely manage visits from loved ones and once this has been done, care home settings will get in touch to let relatives know how to arrange a visit.
While this will be frustrating for residents and their families, it is important we all work together to maintain the safe environment that North East Lincolnshire care homes have so far provided their residents and staff throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Similar to shopping and other experiences, it is likely that there will be controls in place such as social distancing, wearing masks and limiting the numbers of visitors. It is likely visitors will still not be able to have physical contact with residents.
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “We realise that this has been an incredibly difficult time for everyone, and in particular for those living in care homes and their loved ones.
“Our officers are working with care home providers to make sure that there are appropriate measures in place to protect staff, residents and visitors.
“All care homes are different and will be setting their own visiting policies. They will all have to follow the guidance based on their own circumstances and the facilities they have available. With that in mind, please be patient and bear with care homes as they adapt to the new guidance and find a way that works best for them.
“The virus has not gone away. It is still in North East Lincolnshire and we must take steps to protect our most vulnerable. I hope that people will understand and bear with care home staff as they adapt.”
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