As we’ve just come out of the second lockdown of this year, we thought it was time for a round up of what we’ve been doing in response to COVID-19. The team has worked tirelessly to make sure that all the rules and regulations have been strictly adhered to and we are extremely proud to say that Heaton House has so far been Covid-free.  

There’s no doubt that the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic has affected the lives of everyone. For those in care and  residential homes, the impact has been particularly hard and it has taken all the resources and dedication of those who provide the care, to protect and shield their vulnerable residents. 

Sally Neil-Smith, the owner and manager here at Heaton House, recently spoke to Sussex Local magazine about the measures she has implemented to provide a stable environment for her residents.

“We are the only Outstanding rated dementia care home in West Sussex that specialises in the care of early stage dementia residents so the provision of a safe haven with compassionate care is of utmost importance. The home focuses on providing social interaction, companionship and stimulation in a homely environment, with en-suite accommodation and a varied choice of nutritious food.

The ongoing pandemic has caused major problems for all residential establishments. At Heaton House, our summer house has been converted into a visitor centre for outdoor visits during the warmer months. For the colder months, heat and light has been installed to ensure it can still be used for such visits when the weather permits. An indoor visiting area has also been created with a large Perspex screen and headphones available to assist communication between the resident and their visitor. Strict rules are in place to ensure the safety of the residents, their visitors and the staff.

Testing staff and residents for COVID-19

Since August, all our residents have been tested for the virus every four weeks and the staff are tested weekly. We’re very proud of the fact that due to our diligence, there have been no cases of coronavirus within our home. Of course, the residents look forward to regular visits from their nominated family member and there is a full risk assessment in place for each visit. Plus robust infection control measures.

The Government is soon to release LFT (Lateral Flow Tests) so we can test everyone for each and every visit, meaning hugs could be back! Everyone has had to adapt in some way or other during this extraordinary period and we feel that our staff and management at Heaton House have risen to the challenge admirably.”

Unusually, we currently have a room available. For more details visit our availability page or contact 01903 700251 and ask for Sally or Sue. We hope you all continue to keep safe during these diff