21 September 2021

Dear Resident or Family Member,

RE: Continuing to provide care and support through lockdown

With the recent changes in COVID-19 restrictions in some LGAs of NSW, we wish to provide you with an update on the current COVID-19 situation and impact across our NSW Retirement Communities. We would also like to reassure you of our ongoing commitment to providing the highest levels of care and support to your loved ones at this especially challenging time.

Unfortunately, it is likely that visitor restriction to residential aged care will remain in place until the current stay-at-home orders are lifted within each individual LGA. We will continue to monitor the situation and respond in line with the NSW Health directives.

What does this mean for residents and families?

We understand that restrictions on visitation have been difficult for many residents and their loved ones, so please do not hesitate to contact the manager of your home if you would like to discuss the individual care needs of your loved one, or have any questions or concerns.

To remain connected to your loved one we encourage you to use any of the following options:

• Special exceptions to visitation rules. Visitation exceptions may apply for residents at end of life, or who may be experiencing distress or where a special care and support role is required. Please speak with the manager of your home to discuss arrangements.
• Calvary WebEx video call service is in place for residents to stay connected with family. We are aware that this decision may be unsettling for residents and families. We encourage families to contact the facility and book a time for WebEx video calls to minimise the effects of social isolation.
• Window visits will be facilitated. Should you wish to arrange to see your family member we encourage you to contact the facility to book a time.

We are committed to providing the highest standard of care to keep our residents safe:

• Our staff will be wearing face masks. Consistent with the latest NSW Health advice, our staff and any visiting GP will be required to wear a surgical face mask at all times. Any visitor who is permitted entry as a special exception will be required to wear a face mask at all times.
• COVID-19 Vaccination. We are pleased to advise that all rostered staff have received their first dose of the vaccine consistent with the NSW Health orders.

Calvary acknowledges the importance of COVID-19 vaccination for keeping our residents, staff and community safe. We would like to take this opportunity to strongly encourage all families and visitors to become vaccinated prior to visiting their loved ones. While non-vaccination will not preclude visitation, additional precautions (such as wearing masks and limited access) may be required.

As the situation evolves, NSW Health may advise changes to restrictions and we will adjust our restrictions accordingly. For the latest NSW Health COVID-19 updates, please visit: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/default.aspx

For up-to-date information for all residents and family members, please visit Calvary’s COVID-19 updates site regularly at: www.calvarycoronavirusupdates.org.au.

Thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely,