Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps the Government is taking to support residents in care homes who are spending much of their time in isolation as a result of outbreaks of covid-19 in care homes.

The Government has updated guidance on outbreaks in care homes to reduce the duration of restrictions. Following identification of two positive COVID-19 cases, if no further cases are detected in whole home testing on day 0 or in further testing of those who tested negative between days four to seven restrictions may be lifted, subject to a risk assessment. This may mean that measures are only in place for approximately seven days, depending on polymerase chain reaction testing times. This is less than the 14-day period of restrictions that was previously required.

In addition, all residents should be supported to nominate an essential care giver who may visit them to attend to care and wellbeing needs. The care giver should be enabled to visit in most circumstances, including if the care home is in outbreak. Window and pod visits may also take place, subject to a risk assessment.