18 February 2022

Dear Resident or Family Member,

COVID-19 Update for Residents and Families of Calvary Brighton-Le-Sands

I am writing to inform you that four (4) additional Preston House residents have tested positive in the latest round of testing at Calvary Brighton-Le-Sands. This brings the total COVID positive residents to fourteen (14), all residing in Preston House.

Due to the ongoing transmission within the home and to keep our residents and staff safe, we have taken the decision to close Preston House to visitors, effective immediately and until further notice. All Preston House residents are currently isolating and will remain in and be cared for in their rooms for now.

Calvary’s Position Statement on Visiting in Aged Care allows visits for residents in all circumstances, including when a home is experiencing an outbreak and is in lockdown. There are, however, specific circumstances where we must take additional precautions, such as locking down particular households or units, to contain the ongoing transmission and keep our residents and staff safe.  Thank you for your understanding.

Our testing regime with staff and residents continues over the coming days in line with Public Health Unit advice, and we will be in touch again when the results become available.  We anticipate our next communication to you will be early next week.

All other Brighton-Le-Sands residents except those in Preston House may receive visitors, see below:

Updated information for visitors

• One fully vaccinated visitor per resident, is permitted entry to the home.
• Opening hours are from 11.00am- 6.00pm daily, with last entry permitted at 4.30pm. This is to ensure all screening processes can be completed by our day staff.
• All visitors will be supplied with the appropriate PPE (including face masks and shields as appropriate) to wear whilst visiting. Staff assist you with PPE as required,
• Visitors will be required to have a rapid antigen test (RAT test) before entering the home. This takes time, and we ask for your patience as we manage this important screening process.
• Visitation exceptions may be made for residents receiving end of life care, residents who may be experiencing distress, or where a special care and support role is provided. Please speak with the home manager to discuss arrangements.

We will continue to liaise closely with Public Health Unit officials, who will make the decision about whether and when it is safe to remove the current restrictions. 

Please contact the home to book a video call with your loved one, or if you have any concerns. Care packages for your loved ones may also be left with security. Please label them clearly.

Thank you for your continued understanding and patience at this time.

Sincerely,

Amanda Bennett,

General Manager Aged Care Sydney