Shetland’s care homes are now welcoming visitors under carefully controlled conditions.
Scottish Government guidance now allows for a single designated individual to visit their family member or friend outdoors, with appropriate social distancing.
Councillor Emma Macdonald is Chair of the Integration Joint Board, which has responsibility for most local care centres: “I’m very pleased that we have got to this point. It has been an extremely difficult few months for residents, families and staff, and it is so important that this contact is now being allowed, albeit under carefully monitored conditions. We know all too well the risks the virus poses to this vulnerable group of people, so it is important we continue to be vigilant, but I’m hopeful that before too long we can move to more relaxed visiting.
“In the meantime, though, I’d like to pass on my thanks once more to residents, families and staff for their patience and courage during this very difficult time.”
The care homes visiting guidance can be found on the Scottish Government's webpages at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-adult-care-homes-visiting-guidance/