Families have been given the green light to visit their loved ones in Fife’s care homes.
With lockdown restrictions easing, a phased approach to visiting is being introduced, with just essential visits and garden visits with a designated person allowed to begin with.
A care home will have to have been covid-19 free for 28 days before visits resume.
Almost three quarters of Fife’s care homes have reported at least one case of suspected coronavirus since the pandemic began and, in common with the rest of Scotland, all were closed to visitors in March.
Although now open, physical distancing measures are in place and all visitors and residents must wear PPE.
Care homes have already begun contacting families and friends of residents with information on how to arrange a visit and what to expect.
Over the past few months care home staff have helped residents to keep in touch with loved ones via phone and face time calls.
SNP councillor Rosemary Liewald, chairwoman 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 allowed 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.”
David Heaney, divisional general manager with Fife Health and 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.”
