Dear Resident and Family Members,

Calvary St Joseph’s set to re-open to visitors from tomorrow

We are very pleased to let you know that the latest round of testing at Calvary St Joseph’s has revealed no additional cases of COVID-19 amongst residents or staff. In line with advice from the Hunter New England Public Health Unit, the outbreak at Calvary St Joseph’s has been declared over.

Current restrictions at the home are being lifted, residents of all households can now move freely within the home effective immediately, and we will re-open to visitors from tomorrow, subject to the below guidelines.

Information for visitors

• Calvary St Joseph’s will re-open to visitors from Tuesday, 18 January 2022.
• In line with Calvary’s recent visitor update of 29 December 2021, and due to the continuing heightened risk of infection, one single nominated visitor only will be permitted per resident. This will be in place until further notice.
• Each family should nominate the visitor and notify the home manager of who this person is. The visitor is strongly encouraged to have obtained a booster vaccine if they are eligible.
• Opening hours are 11am – 2pm and from 3pm – 6pm.
• The home is closed to incoming visitors between 2pm – 3pm. This is to enable efficient surveillance testing of staff as they are coming on duty for the afternoon shift.
• All visitors will need to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) before entering the home. This will be conducted on site. This is likely to delay visitor’s entry into the home and we ask for your patience as we move through this important screening process. All visitors will need to arrive by 4.30pm to have their screening tests.
• 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.
• At present, resident outings are limited to medical appointments only.

What happens now?

Our staff will continue to closely monitor all residents for symptoms of COVID-19.

Thank you to our residents for your cooperation during this recent outbreak. To our families, we are grateful that you continue to work with us so generously to ensure the safety of your loved ones in our care, and look forward to receiving visitors back into the home.

Sincerely,                   

Bryan McLoughlin,  Regional CEO – NSW & QLD