Chief Executive Officer COVID-19 Update – 23 October 2020
Reports submitted to the Risk Committee from Regions reflected the nationally reported position about the increased numbers of infections across some local areas. An increase in the number of areas subject to increased tier restrictions was noted. The Risk Committee discussed some of the guidance received following changes in tier to establish how this had been responded to and to establish if the interpretation of it was consistent This would be challenging for all involved, but the Risk Committee was assured that plans to respond appropriately are in place. Business Continuity Plans would be reviewed in light of local changes.
It was particularly noted that Wales would be subject to a national lockdown from this evening.
Testing of individuals we support and colleagues was reported as taking place but again there were Regional variations on availability of test kits and the receipt of results. The Risk Committee noted that the issue of variability in testing was raised at the Board and this issue will be raised on our behalf nationally.
With regard to flu vaccinations, again uptake in some areas was reported as patchy as some colleagues are reluctant to get a jab. Further encouragement would be given locally and nationally to impress the importance of the flu jab for individuals we support and colleagues. The flu jab competitions were taking place and it hoped this would encourage better uptake. The Risk Committee looked forward to seeing the winners announced over the coming months.
Where people are moving into services, the Risk Committee was advised all appropriate guidance was being followed. There was a discussion about any changes in medication management following some changes in pharmacy practice. This would be reviewed locally to mitigate any risk and identify if any changes in training were required.
Concerning PPE whilst supplies internally remain sufficient two Regions reported difficulties in registering for the national PPE portal. This would be progressed locally. Registering on the portal for supported living services remained impossible but this would continue to be challenged.
The Risk Committee noted the reported closure of a residential care home operated by another provider by CQC following concerns about poor infection control and staff not wearing PPE.
A future operational challenge with regard to any future legal restrictions on the movement of staff between services was noted. The need to plan for this should it become a legal requirement was agreed.
The thanks of the Board and the Risk and Governance Committee were conveyed to the Committee and all colleagues. “The change in tiers announced nationally is increasing the number of services subject to further restrictions but I am confident that because of the planning we have done we should be able to respond appropriately. Colleagues are being really focused and continuing to show exceptional commitment – I am so proud of what they are doing”. Karen Lewis, Chief Operations Officer.