Local MP, Dame Caroline Dinenage, welcomes the removal of restrictions around people visiting their loved ones in care homes. As cases, hospitalisations and deaths from Covid-19 continue to fall, Caroline, the previous Minister of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, is pleased that the Government’s decision will ensure greater support for care home residents.
From Monday 31 January, there will be no limit on the number of visitors allowed into care homes, self-isolation periods will be cut, and care homes only have to follow outbreak management rules for 14 rather than 28 days.
By Wednesday 16 February, care workers will be asked to use rapid lateral flow tests before their shifts replacing the current system which included the use of weekly asymptomatic PCR tests.
86.5% of all care home residents have now had their booster jab, which provides maximum protection against Omicron, with the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency showing it’s 92% effective in preventing hospitalisation 2 weeks after it’s administered.
Commenting Caroline said:
“It has been devastating for families and friends whose visits with their loved ones have been so restricted over the past two years. Easing these measures is a good balance to protect the physical health with the emotional wellbeing of residents.”
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said:
“I know how vital companionship is to those living in care homes and the positive difference visits make, which is why we continued to allow 3 named visitors and an essential care giver under Plan B measures.
Thanks to the progress we have made, I am delighted that care home restrictions can now be eased further allowing residents to see more of their loved ones.”
Minister for Care Gillian Keegan said:
“Thanks to the continued success of the vaccine roll-out, I am delighted we can ease restrictions in care settings and allow unlimited visits to ensure people living in care homes see all their family and friends.
The changes announced today are backed by scientists, ensuring we all have more freedoms from coronavirus, including care home residents and their families.”