Visitor restrictions begin to ease at Fife care homes

Visiting restrictions at Fife’s care homes are beginning to ease from today.

Phased changes to the rules mean families and friends will soon be able to visit their loved ones after the Covid-19 pandemic meant it was not possible for the last few months.

Care staff have been supporting residents and helping them to keep connected with loved ones via phone and FaceTime calls while visits were suspended.

Councillor Rosemary Liewald, chairman of Fife’s Integration Joint Board, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to all Fife’s care home staff – they have been amazing throughout this period.

“It hasn’t been an easy time for residents and their families not being able to visit in person.

“Care home staff have really stepped up to the challenge to ensure other measures were put in place to keep families connected.”

As the lockdown restrictions are beginning to ease, visiting care homes will be a bit different.

There will be a phased approach and before any visits resume, the care home must be Covid-19 free for 28 days.

Each phase of the approach will be dependent on guidance from the Scottish Government.

Initially essential visits and garden visits with a designated visitor will be permitted.

Physical distancing measures will be in place and visitors and residents must wear personal protective equipment.

Care homes have been contacting families and friends of care home residents with information on how to arrange a visit and what to expect.

David Heaney, divisional general manager, Fife Health & Social Care Partnership, added: “We know how important it is for the wellbeing of residents and their families to have these connections, so it’s great to see visits resuming.

“I can’t thank care home staff enough for all they have been doing and continue to do to support residents and the innovative ways they have been keeping residents safe and entertained.

“Our residents and staff are our priority and visits will be managed by the care home to ensure the safety of residents, their visitors and staff.

“To arrange a visit please contact the care home first.

“Residents remain at a higher risk from Covid-19 because of their age and/or medical conditions so if you have been feeling unwell in any way please do not visit.”