NEW rules permitting two people to visit a care home at the same time have been praised by Worcestershire County Council.
Currently, people in care homes can have just one face-to-face visitor but this will be extended to two from April 12.
They will be able to hold hands as long as visitors test negative for Covid-19 beforehand and wear PPE at all times.
Visitors will be able to bring babies and young children with them, meaning some residents will see their grandchildren for the first time in months.
Paula Furnival, strategic director of people at the authority, said: “We know how incredibly difficult it has been for residents in care homes and their families during the pandemic.
“The announcement by the Government to allow two regular visitors is very much welcomed and means residents can see an extra family member or friend on top of the one regular visitor they can see at the moment.
“Whilst this is great news for all involved, visitors must test negative for Covid-19 ahead of their visit.
“We continue to work closely with our care home providers across Worcestershire to ensure that all visits during the pandemic are as safe as possible.
“Each care home has an individual Covid plan in place to keep their residents, visitors and staff safe.”
