Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

Covid -19 testing has ceased for residents and the visitors.

We recognise that the use of face masks all of the time across adult social care can cause difficulties for people receiving care and staff looking after them. Guidance has now been amended to support a risk-based approach. This replaces previous guidance that stated face masks should be worn at all times across adult social care.

Decisions on the use of masks should balance the risk of infections spreading with any risks or benefits that arise from the use of masks. Providers should follow updated guidance and continue to engage with staff and people receiving care to inform decisions on when masks should be used. As set out in guidance, masks should continue to be used by:

• A staff member caring for a person suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19

• A staff member who is a household or overnight contact of someone with COVID-19

• Staff and visitors if there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in the setting.

• A staff member if the person receiving care prefers a carer to wear a mask

The use of masks may also be considered if caring for someone who is particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from COVID-19 (e.g. potentially eligible for COVID-19 therapeutics) on an individual basis and in accordance with their preferences. Mask wearing may also be considered when an event or gathering is assessed as having a particularly high risk of transmission. Providers can move to a risk-based approach as soon as they feel able to do so providing relevant risk-assessments have been undertaken. All providers should ensure they can demonstrate evidence of risk-assessments for their use of masks by 22 December.