Edgehill Care Home in Swindon is COVID-free and cautiously welcoming visitors
Edgehill Care Home in Swindon, one of our two care homes in Wiltshire, is grateful to be COVID-free. Any resident or team member showing symptoms is tested, but there have been no coronavirus cases in the home at all.
During lockdown the team of 80 staff has worked hard to keep residents’ spirits up. Edgehill’s two activity co-ordinators have spent time talking to residents about the 1-2-1 and group activities they’d like to try.
A resident suggested an indoor walking group, which has proved really popular. Other activities include fitness classes, bowls, bird-watching and a craft group.
Residents have also found alternative ways to take trips ‘out’. They’ve made the most of Edgehill’s smart TV to go on virtual tours, join in with Joe Wicks’ workouts and attend church services.
Edgehill’s accessible garden has come into its own during lockdown. Lots of residents have been involved in rejuvenating the outside space.
With a large new seating area the home can now welcome pre-booked outside family visits, albeit at a safe distance of at least 2m, and with a few stipulations to minimise the risk.
Lisa Edwards in the registered manager
“I was promoted to manager just before lockdown – what a time to take the reins! I’m incredibly proud of how the team, residents, relatives and our local community have pulled together during the pandemic, despite the restrictions and our strict hygiene and PPE procedures.
We’ve found lots of new ways of keeping in touch with family. There have been many cards and letters, and we’ve helped our residents make video calls on our tablets.
We feel we’re now able to start bringing a level of normality back to the home. We’re excited to welcome family and friends – we’ve missed them all so much!!”
