COVID – frequently asked questions by our clients (updatedApril 2023)
Answers to frequently asked questions about coronavirus (COVID-19) and care provision for our clients and their families.
We are following the latest Government guidance (April 2023) regarding relaxation on the mandatory use of face masks, alongside other PPE and infection, prevention and control and testing measures.
Under these guidelines, each service location will have autonomy to risk assess use/non use of face masks according to their own particular circumstances. 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.
We will ensure residents, clients and their loved ones understand the revised guidance and will address any concerns or preferences they may have.
I am reliant on my Agincare care workers, what will happen if they are no longer able to come?
We have business continuity plans in place to cover emergencies such as the recent Covid pandemic. All Agincare care and support staff follow strict infection, prevention and control guidelines based on government guidance at the time. Inter-office/care home support networks give flexibility in terms of severe lack of staff in any one service; bank staff and, if necessary, agency workers and appropriate volunteers will be utilised. Off-duty staff may be asked to provide cover at short notice if they are available.
All relevant employment protection regulations which may alter at short notice subject to government advice regarding a COVID outbreak would be complied with, relating to the number of hours worked within a specified period and breaks between periods of working. People who are reliant on the service are prioritised for home visits, where others have family who can support them in the interim or non-essential visits are made such as a weekly shopping call for instance.
Am I able to visit a loved one with COVID-19?
Please see our latest guidance on care home visiting.
How can I protect myself and others?
The best way to protect yourself is to follow government advice. Observe good hygiene by:
- Cleaning your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub
- Covering your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or a flexed elbow
- Avoiding close contact with anyone with symptoms
- Make sure you stay home if you have any symptoms
Do face masks and other protective equipment/wear protect against COVID-19?
Wearing gloves, face masks and aprons at home are not required, unless you are supporting someone who has symptoms.
The Department of Health and Social Care is distributing supplies of face masks and other essential protective equipment to all care providers. Agincare is equipped to continue to care for those who have, or are suspected of having coronavirus-type symptoms and care and support staff will ensure all PPE is worn and disposed of in line with current guidance at the time.
Stay informed
Stay up-to-date using trusted sources of information. The UK Government and the NHS will keep people informed of new advice and developments. Please check the following sources of advice frequently:
- The Gov.uk website will keep you in touch with how the Government is responding.
- The NHS website includes a wide range of COVID information.
- The Gov.uk website guidance on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of Coronavirus
