😁 Mask update – Smiles are back at Weston House
Minister of State for Care Helen Whately said: “The darkest days of the pandemic are thankfully behind us. But it doesn’t feel like that for people living in care homes or being cared for at home, when many of the people they see are still behind a mask”
As of Thursday 15th December 2022 Care workers and visitors to care homes do not routinely need to wear a face mask at all times in care settings or when providing care in people’s own homes. However, there remain a number of circumstances where it is recommended that care workers and visitors to care settings wear masks to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
The change in guidance means:
– Visitors to adult care homes do not need to wear a face covering, including in communal areas.
– Staff providing direct care do not need to routinely wear a face mask at all times during their shift.
– Staff in non-direct care roles (eg. catering, domestic, office staff) do not need to routinely wear a face covering in communal areas.
Please note that:
– Visitors and staff may choose to wear a mask, and this should be supported.
– While receiving care and support, individuals (or their representatives where relevant) may wish a member of staff to wear a mask. If so, this should be supported by staff and be recorded in care or support plans.
– The fundamental principles of infection prevention and control continue to be essential in care homes, and therefore there will continue to be situations, such as some outbreak situations, where the Health Protection Team or IPC Team may advise on reintroducing face mask wearing.
James Acting Home Manager says: “We welcome this as a really positive step forward as we learn to live with Covid. This will make communication and relationships easier with our residents, benefiting mental health and promoting the rights and choices of those working in and living within the service. We look forward to seeing everyone’s smiles again! For more information visiting the Government website via the following link ➡️ https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/infection-prevention-and-control-in-adult-social-care-covid-19-supplement/covid-19-supplement-to-the-infection-prevention-and-control-resource-for-adult-social-
