Visiting suspended at South Tyneside care homes to prevent spread of coronavirus

The authority has announced it is suspending visits at Hagan Hall and Clasper Court.

Coun Tracey Diuon is the council’s deputy leader with responsibility for independence and wellbeing: “In these unprecedented times, we are doing everything we can to provide the most vulnerable in our communities with the services they rely on,” she said.

Read more: Get more information and news on the coronavirus crisis in South Tyneside

“Our Adult Social Care teams are working hard to focus their efforts on those with the most pressing needs or without family and friends to care for them.

“It is vital we all pull together to make sure people can be discharged from hospital in a timely manner into a range of different settings within the community. We will need the support of our community, family, friends and the voluntary sector to make this work.

“To manage the spread of the virus, we have closed Hagan Hall and Clasper Court to visitors. While we appreciate this is distressing for families of residents, it is imperative that we all adhere to the national guidance on social distancing.

“Residential and nursing care provision is still open and we are working with our partners to continue to provide home care and independent supported living. We would like to reassure you that we are following national guidance in respect of our staff and the necessary requirements for personal protective equipment.

“It is inevitable adult social care will come under increased pressure as this pandemic unfolds as more people are discharged from hospitals into care and care workers become unwell or have to self-isolate.

“The current crisis is impacting on every single one of us. However, I would urge you to think in particular about the most vulnerable in our communities who through no fault of their own are left more susceptible to this virus.

“Our focus in the next few weeks has to be about putting their needs first. I know we will all pull together to make sure this happens.”