OVERJOYED residents at a Warminster care home are now able to receive visitors indoors after only being able to see them outside during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Henford House care home has opened a new visiting suite for residents to continue to spend time with their loved ones for the autumn and winter seasons.

It is providing an alternative to the outdoor visiting that has been on offer for those able for many months.

Home operator Barchester Healthcare says it understands how important it is for residents and their family and friends to be able to spend time together in the safest way possible.

Natalie James, general manager at Henford House, said: “The visiting suite has been a much welcomed development for our residents to continue to receive much looked forward to visits from their loved ones, as the weather changes.

"It was wonderful to see how happy it made the residents and their relatives in a warm and cosy environment.

“We are welcoming new residents into our homes to ensure that we are there for those that need care and support, and have a very clear admission policy and infection control protocols that must be met."

The new suite has been welcome news for the home’s residents and family and friends as they enter the colder season, meaning catch-ups can continue to take place instead of, or in addition to, outdoor visiting already offered for those able.

The suite has been designed with both comfort and safety in mind, and has been recently adapted from a room which is accessible internally by residents and externally by visitors.

The room is similar to a living room with comfortable furnishings and heated to create a welcoming and warm environment for residents to continue to spend time with their loved ones in the upcoming months.

It has been fitted with an intercom system so residents can clearly communicate, and engage in conversation, whilst being able to see their friends and family through a Perspex glass divider fitted for safety to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Infection control protocols and safe social distancing are in place for every visit, including a hand sanitizer station before entry.

Cleaning at Henford House care home will take place after each visit to ensure chairs, seats, hard surfaces including windowsills, and the Perspex glass divider are wiped down appropriately.

The feedback from families to date has meant that the majority of people would accept unusual arrangements if it meant being able to see their loved ones while also keeping themselves safe, as a temporary measure.

Barchester Healthcare hope to allow visits again as normal once it is safe to do so following government guidance.

The company is one of the UK’s largest care providers and is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals.

Henford House provides nursing care, residential care and respite care. Call 01985 212430 if you are looking for care or need any further help.