Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, when residents of care homes in England will be able to receive visitors; and what testing plan for visitors will be put in place to ensure the safety of residents and staff during the covid-19 outbreak.

The Department, Public Health England, the Care Quality Commission and the National Health Service have published guidance on the care of residents in care homes. This includes guidance on visiting.

While we have recommended that family and friends should be advised not to visit care homes, we are clear that there may be exceptional situations where visits are appropriate. During these visits, appropriate infection control precautions should be followed.

We know how difficult it is for residents and their families to have their visits restricted and we will continue to review our guidance in line with the latest scientific advice and engage with stakeholders to ensure we address the majority of?their concerns.