Dec 2021
Expected changes to care home visiting
A message from CEO, Dan Hayes, about visiting in OSJCT care homes
Dear family member or friend,
Firstly, on behalf of the Trust, I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Like many of you, we have seen the news over the weekend of the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, and the actions we must all take to keep each other safe over the coming weeks.
In addition to national requirements, we have been alerted by government to new guidance coming out today regarding visiting arrangements, testing, and our workforce.
We have not received the details yet, but we believe that from Wednesday 15 December, our residents will be limited to three nominated visitors, plus one Essential Care Giver. Our understanding is that the vast majority of residents will see no, or minimal effects, in visits to their home through these changes.
Residents that leave our services to visit out will need to undertake additional tests, for a longer period on their return.
We will provide more details when we receive the guidance, but for now please be reassured that we want our residents to have visitors, and we believe it is of huge importance to the health and wellbeing of all involved.
Finally, remember that there is a great deal that you can do to help protect your loved one, and all of those that live with your loved one who are also vulnerable:
- Where you are eligible, get your COVID-19 booster as quickly as possible and without exception. This is the single most important thing you can do for yourself and others.
- Follow to the letter, all of the guidance and checks put in place by the home/scheme to protect you and others.
- Do not visit an OSJCT care home if you feel unwell or for seven days after being notified by Test and Trace that you have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
We thank you for your patience with our care teams, as we implement these changes, and manage visiting over the festive period.
With best wishes,
Dan Hayes