How Calderdale care homes are keeping up the spirits of residents

Coping with the coronavirus crisis brings daily issues but as homes work round the clock to protect their residents, they are not alone with support from Calderdale Council and other partners, says a manager of one of them.

Kerry Parkinson, who is registered manager at Hazelroyd Nursing Home in Halifax, says the pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges.

“I have never experienced anything like this before – it is a fast changing situation and asks you to call on a lot of skills and adapt successfully,” she said.

Kerry said risk assessments were updated from an initial one in January with level of risk rising to medium and then high. By March 17 a staged lockdown meant all but essential visits to the home were discouraged.

Calderdale Council were in touch every day by phone or email and helped source vital Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), with the authority’s infection control lead Sandra Beaumont providing “incredible” help, she said.

Clear guidance includes procedure if cases of COVID-19 are diagnosed, and carers have been involved in planning from an early stage.

“There have been wobbles because it is frightening, but the staff have shown bravery and resilience and they have pulled together as a team,” said Kerry.

“We have had to adapt to keep people in touch – we have got a conservatory so families can go out to the patio and see their relatives through the window.

““It’s been a challenge, but there have been ways we can keep people in touch with those they love,” she said.