Keeping our CareGivers safe during the pandemic
Published: 07/03/2019
At Right at Home, safety has always been and will always be, our number one priority. Our CareGivers are doing a fantastic job keeping our Clients safe and supported at home during the pandemic and we have welcomed lots of new CareGivers into the sector.
CareGiver Safety
We understand though that for those who are new to care, you may be feeling a little apprehensive about starting a role in care at this time. We would like to reassure you that we have all of the necessary steps in place for you to safely provide all of the essential homecare services that our vulnerable Clients need to remain living in the comfort of their own home during the pandemic.
Training and Support
Firstly, all of our CareGivers receive comprehensive training when they first join Right at Home. As well as learning everything you need to know to become an excellent CareGiver, you will also:
- Cover COVID-19 infection prevention and control.
- Learn how to use and remove all of the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), to safely carry out your role.
- Receive lots of observation and support in the field to make sure you are happy, safe and comfortable.
Personal Protective Equipment
Please also be assured that we have a solid supply chain in place for PPE, so our CareGivers have everything they need to keep both themselves and their Clients as safe as possible. This PPE includes gloves, aprons, surgical masks, face shields (where appropriate) and enhanced PPE (where necessary). Our CareGivers are also supplied with a clinically tested and certified disinfectant solution to clean their face shields in between care visits.
Following Official Government Guidance
We will continue to follow official guidance from Public Health England and we are in close contact with the United Kingdom Home Care Association (UKHCA). Following this guidance enables us to continue delivering the much needed care and support that so many in our local communities rely on to stay safe and independent at home.
Weekly Testing
In addition, you may be aware that the Government has a weekly testing programme in place for CareGivers, regardless of whether or not they are displaying symptoms of COVID-19. Taking such measures will significantly reduce the chance of you coming into contact with another CareGiver who could be COVID-19 positive, even if they are not showing symptoms.
Vaccination Programme
As our CareGivers are Health and Social Care professionals they were all invited in January 2021 to have their first dose of the COVID 19 vaccine. We are pleased that all CareGivers came forward to have their vaccine – a huge step in protecting our clients, themselves and the wider community.
If you would like to know more about how we are keeping our CareGivers safe during the pandemic, please give our friendly Ilkley team a call on 01943 603794. You can also find out more about our CareGiver opportunities here.