COVID-19

We understand the impact of COVID-19, and Sandmere has been designed with this awareness in mind. The health and safety of our residents, their families, and our team members are paramount at Sandmere Care Home. Our commitment is to create and maintain a safe environment, minimising the risks associated with COVID-19.

Sandmere strictly adheres to all guidelines and regulations set forth by the Government and key sector bodies. We have implemented robust policies and procedures to offer a high level of reassurance to residents and visitors, prioritising their well-being throughout their time at our care home.

Our COVID-19 Approach

Care homes in England can make risk-based decisions as to whether face masks are required to be worn. Following a risk assessment, our care home has made the decision to remove the universal wearing of masks. It is a personal choice whether visitors still wish to wear a mask and people receiving care can ask staff to wear face masks; our staff will continue to work in whichever way makes our residents most comfortable.

We continue to no longer have restrictions as to the number of visits per resident though we ask that you make arrangements in advance of your visit to ensure safe visiting practices can be maintained.

At any time, the decision to not wear face masks can be changed as determined by the Home Manager, company, local or national healthcare agencies. COVID-19 regulations and guidance from the Government, National, and Local Healthcare Agencies may also change. For further information, please click here or contact the Home Manager directly.

Our Safety Measures

At Sandmere Care Home, we ensure high standards of cleanliness, care, and support to help keep our residents and their loved ones as protected against COVID-19 as they can be.

Personal Protective Equipment

Keeping Up To Date With Guidance

Infection Prevention and Control Measures

Encouraging Ongoing Vaccinations

Accurate Record Keeping

Staying Connected with Loved Ones

Ensuring Safety in our Community

At Sandmere Care Home, we prioritise the safety of our community through the maintenance of a well-stocked inventory of PPE and hand hygiene products. Our team is committed to rigorous infection prevention and control measures.

Remaining current and compliant with official advice and guidance from the Government, the Department of Health, and the local NHS Trust is crucial to us. We strongly recommend that both our residents and team members receive all available vaccinations and boosters for COVID-19 and flu. In the event of cases, we have an efficient system for record-keeping and swift actions to contain and address any situation.

Maintaining Connections at Sandmere

At Sandmere Care Home, we recognise the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 and are committed to maintaining connections for our residents with their loved ones and the broader community. We fully endorse residents who express a desire to go on day trips or overnight stays, with the simple requirement of an individual risk assessment, including respiratory screening questions upon their return. While testing and isolation are not mandatory, we strongly encourage vaccination in these instances for the safety of all.

During times when physical interaction may be limited, we actively support our residents in staying connected through various online devices, allowing them to engage in video calls with friends and family. We firmly believe in the importance of human connection and participation in activities for the mental and physical well-being of our residents, promoting these opportunities whenever possible.

COVID-19 FAQs

It is important to us that we keep residents, their families, and our staff as safe as possible and we understand the worries and concerns associated with COVID-19. At Sandmere Care Home, we are always happy to answer your questions and reassure you of any concerns you may have. Here are some of our FAQs regarding COVID-19.

While vaccination is no longer mandatory, we highly recommend that all residents, visitors, and team members at Sandmere Care Home receive full COVID-19 vaccination, including future boosters, unless medically exempt. Our commitment to reducing the risk of infection remains steadfast, and we will continue to encourage our team members to stay up-to-date with all recommended vaccinations.

When transitioning from the community or another care setting, residents do not need to isolate under the following circumstances:

✓ The conditions at the previous care home or interim care facility are known.

If a resident is symptomatic or has been in close contact with someone with COVID-19, isolation is recommended. They should conduct two LFT tests on day (0) and again on day (2), and isolation can end with two negative test results.

Residents who test positive in the home must isolate for 5 days. Afterward, they can resume normal activities if they feel well and have no high temperature (without using medication like paracetamol).

Those testing positive should avoid contact with other individuals eligible for COVID-19 treatments for 10 days after a positive test. Residents unable to take the test should isolate for 5 days.

In the event of an outbreak, risk assessments may be conducted, covering aspects such as controlling visiting arrangements, admissions to the home, and the use of communal areas for a specified period. We collaborate closely with local and national agencies, adhering to local agreements and guidance. For additional details, please reach out directly to our Home Manager.

Contact Us

Sandmere Care Home
Seacole Way
Margate
Kent
CT9 4PA

01843 663277 info@sandmerecare.co.uk