'It was such a lovely, emotional day': Northampton care home reunites families for Father's Day

Safety measures were in place for family day

Ridgeway House care home in Northampton organised a Father’s Day lockdown visits on Sunday.

Ray Oakey and his son Martinplaceholder image
Ray Oakey and his son Martin

Service manager Sarah Ansell, from Northamptonshire County Council, said: “It was such a lovely emotional day after almost 14 weeks without seeing the families. There were lots of joyful tears!

“The lounge and outside areas were decorated with flowers, balloons and banners and a risk assessment was put in place to ensure government guidelines were followed.

Don Harris with his daughter Leslieplaceholder image
Don Harris with his daughter Leslie

"Plastic table cloths were changed between each visit, as sterilizing the chairs and tables each time. Plastic cups were used so refreshments could be offered.

“We were able to put a table in a doorway which led out on to a pavement area. The customer remained in the building sat in an armchair, and their visitors stayed outside to ensure social distancing.

"All visitors had their temperatures taken on arrival, they were asked about any symptoms etc and visitors were asked to use PPE throughout their visit, which was then disposed of appropriately.”

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