Residents Reunited with Loved Ones for the First Time Since Lockdown

Crouched Friar’s residents have been overjoyed to be reunited with their loved ones for the first time since the start of lockdown.

The new measures in place at our Colchester care home have enabled families to visit their loved ones face-to-face, in a safe environment.

Like many other care homes, we closed our doors to all but essential visitors at the start of the pandemic to protect our residents.

Our home, which has so far avoided having any COVID-19 related cases among staff or residents, is following strict safety procedures, with all visits being carefully organised by our manager in the garden, observing the two-metre social distancing rule.

Paulina Eagle, home manager at here at Crouched Friars, said:

“We’re delighted to be able to introduce socially-distanced visits into Crouched Friars.

“Residents have really missed seeing their relatives face to face regularly. So, we’re overjoyed to make this happen again in a safe environment. We can already see the positive impact it’s having. It has given a much-needed boost to many of our residents and their families.

“We’re all looking forward to the day when we can welcome relatives back into our home. But until then, we hope that our garden visits will make it a bit easier for our residents and their families.”

Our staff have worked hard to ensure that residents have had regular contact with their families by phone or video call. However, close up, face to face conversations have not been possible.

Among the residents thrilled to be able to have visitors again was Anthony Judge, who was delighted to see his daughter Arline Bland.

Arline, who was very emotional after her visit, commented:

“It was great to see dad looking so well and content. He didn’t seem to have been affected by us not visiting over the last three months. He gave me the thumbs up, which was rather emotional.

“The team at Crouched Friars have worked so hard, particularly over the last few months, ensuring residents feel calm and assured at all times. Thank you to all.”

Crouched Friars is also pleased to be welcoming new residents. We have specific procedures in place to continue to support families who are looking for care for a loved one, whilst minimising the risk for residents and staff.

If you’re interested in hearing more about Crouched Friars Residential Home, our team would love to speak with you. Based in Colchester, we provide a welcoming environment for older people to live in comfortably.

Contact us on 01206 572647 or email info@crouchedfriars.co.uk

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