In the three weeks since my last letter much has happened with restrictions now being imposed that are set to take us into the New Year.  I am sure we all hope that we do not return to a national lockdown situation. I can reassure that, whatever happens, we are now well versed in how to operate our homes such that staff are protected and residents are kept safe, whilst continuing to ensure that our residents are happy, engaged and able to make the most of life in their homes.

I am pleased to report that Covid-19 testing has increased dramatically, such that during the last 4 weeks over 950 tests have been carried out for our residents and more than 4600 tests for our staff. A massive undertaking, which is going to be with us for a while. Weekly testing is a major factor in facilitating the managing the risks of Covid-19. It enables us to take prompt action, for instance of the residents tested 5 were positive. They were all in one home and they were all asymptomatic and well. Consequently, we immediately put the home into lockdown and have written to all relatives explaining why this course of action was needed. Staff wise only 12 out of the 4600 tests have been positive, all are isolating as per the Government guidance.

At the risk of tempting fate, contrary to the media messages, we have been able to source all the test kits needed and tests are being submitted each week. We have noticed, for some homes, a slight delay in the results being received, but that is all. All homes have a plan for their weekly testing regimes for staff and 4 weekly for residents.

On the matter of visiting, an emotive topic and rightly so for us all. Following my last letter, I know a few relatives raised concerns about my not looking to extend our visiting options. I hope now everyone feels that was the right decision given the restrictions now being placed upon us. However, we are planning how we can evolve visiting and looking ahead at options regarding Christmas. We will be prepared, if/when Government guidance allows.

With regard to visiting option 1, the screen visits, I can confirm that we are happy to allow the number of visitors to increase from 2 up to 4. The need to socially distance is very much down to the visiting group. These visits will remain in their current locations, so with 4 people space may be tight, but it does at least enable wider family/friend interaction.

Back in July I mentioned in one of my letters about the Colten radio show that was being led by our Music and Arts Partner – Fiona Pritchard. Relatives were asked to send in requests to play for loved ones. Over 90 requests later, many videoed, lots of emotion, smiles and great fun we have produced a video capturing some of the highlights, please see the link below. I defy anyone to watch this and not get a tear in their eye.

The power of music - CLICK HERE TO VIEW

Thank you to Fiona and everyone involved in this amazing piece of work.