VISITING has started to resume at care homes in the region – but with significant restrictions due to the ongoing dangers posed by COVID-19.
Measures are in place to help protect residents who are among the most vulnerable people in our communities, as well as staff and visitors themselves.
Lillian Cringles is Chief Social Work Officer, and she said: “With visiting to care homes having been halted due to COVID-19, it’s been a frustrating few months for the family and friends of residents, as well as residents themselves.
“Understandably, people want to get back to visiting their loved ones, but it’s important to remember that the danger of COVID-19 hasn’t gone away.
“Hopefully everyone is aware of just how vulnerable care homes are to the effects of the coronavirus, and will appreciate the great caution and care that needs to be taken when altering any measures or arrangements in place.
“The Scottish Government has set out a phased approach to resuming visiting to care homes. We’d encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with visiting arrangements, and ask them to appreciate that the measures are there to protect their loved ones, themselves, staff, and our wider communities.”
Only one key or designated visitor will be permitted to visit a care home resident at a time. The visit will be outdoors, with appropriate physical distancing and any other arrangements put in place by the care home. Only visits deemed essential will be permitted indoors at this time.
Lillian said: “I would like to thank friends and relatives of residents for their patience and understanding, and for working with us to ensure that everyone is kept as safe as possible at this challenging time.
“Details on changes to these arrangements will be provided. We would encourage anyone with any questions about visiting care homes during COVID to speak to the relevant care home manager.”
