Dorset's care sector is fully prepared for winter to prevent spread of Coronavirus

Care homes, professional home care, supported living, day opportunity providers and personal assistants across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and Dorset will be continuing to work closely with the councils and local health services in readiness for any rise in Covid-19 cases as the winter months approach.

The local care sector is working with councils and the NHS to help them to continue to keep both residents and staff safe during the ongoing pandemic. This includes:

• Supporting health and social care staff to access flu vaccinations
• Support to implement all aspects of national guidance in relation to infection control and prevention including advice on safely enabling visiting by relatives
• Ensure all providers have consistent and adequate access to PPE and that staff are fully trained and confident to use correctly
• Offers of well-being support to staff and managers
• Reminders of the critical importance of weekly testing for Covid-19 for care home staff

Councillor Karen Rampton, Portfolio Holder for Adults, BCP Council: "I wish to thank our care staff for their skill and dedication throughout this difficult period and their ongoing commitment. They’ve shown true professionalism and resilience, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents and staff. We are committed to supporting them every step of the way throughout this pandemic."

Councillor Laura Miller, Portfolio holder for adult social care and health at Dorset Council said: "It’s through collaborative working across the whole sector that has meant we have been able to really pull together. We’re sharing best practice and making sure that each and every provider is supported, equipped and confident to deliver the best service they can during very challenging times. We will continue to work together so that we are all in the best possible position to respond effectively to incidents and outbreaks during the winter period."

Vanessa Read, Director of Nursing and Quality, Dorset CCG: "We are seeing a rise in Covid-19 cases across Dorset in line with the national trend. We will be doing all we can to support our colleagues in the care sector with our primary care and community health colleagues offering proactive multi-disciplinary clinical support to all care homes."