We know the situation around COVID-19 is a great cause of worry for many, particularly for those who are shielding from the virus.
We feel it is necessary to add some reassurance to you about the measures we’re taking to protect our customers and homecare workers from the transmission of the virus.
- Our homecare workers receive comprehensive training in infection control which has been renewed in the last two months for each member of staff.
- We are strictly following industry guidance from the UK’s Public Health Authorities and World Health Organisation which includes emphasis on the importance of safe handwashing practice and infection control measures.
- We are following the latest guidance from Public Health England regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes wearing facemasks at all times when we visit. We might also wear face visors if deemed necessary and we have a good supply of disposable gloves and aprons which are disposed of after each use.
- Our homecare workers are all supplied with alcohol gel so that they can frequently disinfect their hands
- If a homecare worker is concerned they may have COVID-19, they are required follow NHS advice. If advised to self-isolate at home, they will follow the Government’s stay at home guidance and will not carry out visits until safe to do so.
- We have signed up to participate in weekly PCR testing of our homecare workers. Given that 1 in three people who have Covid-19 do not experience symptoms, testing allows us to detect those who may not be showing any symptoms and isolate them so that they are not a danger to others who may be more vulnerable.
- We have carried out a company wide risk assessment to keep our organisation Covid secure. We have published this document for your information and it can be found by following this link.
- Our managers are taking it in turns to provide office cover and are mostly working from home as per the government guidance. Each manager is able to answer calls to us via an app on their phone so please do not hesitate to call us if you need to.
- We ask that people we support arrange visitors (in line with government guidance) when the carers are not due to visit. It is safer not to have too many different people under one roof.
- If you develop symptoms we can still provide your care service. We will need to make some temporary arrangements, however we have all we need to care for you safely.
As our area has moved into Tier 4 of coronavirus restrictions we are more aware than ever that there is no time for complacency. Our homecare workers take their social responsibilities to keep you as safe as possible very seriously. Our homecare workers are well equipped with the knowledge and PPE they need to prevent transmission of the virus and are aware of their need to adhere to local restrictions.
We continue to follow direction provided by the UK’s Public Health Authorities and World Health Organisation and review guidance daily, working closely with organisations such as Suffolk County Council, local CCG’s and other healthcare professionals.
If you have a specific concern about your care needs or the needs of a family member, please contact your local office directly and they will be more than happy to reassure you.
