As the family members of our residents are aware, over the weekend, we received some positive tests results for Covid-19 in both of our care homes, Autumn Gardens and Anastasia Lodge, including for residents and staff who had exhibited no symptoms for the virus.

We and our dedicated staff are devastated that this horrible virus has infiltrated our homes, despite our tireless efforts and close observance to government guidance and Public Health England advice.

Our residents are being cared for in separated zones, to try to limit the spread of coronavirus. This is extremely challenging, given that some of our residents have not yet been tested, and we have now seen that symptoms are not an accurate indicator of a person’s Covid-19 status. As you will be aware from the news, there is a nationwide shortage of Covid-19 testing kits. More testing, and faster results, are urgently needed – and we have been pleading with Public Health England to provide us with more tests, so that everyone in our homes – symptomatic or not – can be tested, regularly.

We continue to do our utmost to protect and care for all of our residents throughout this period. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call us on 0208 344 2600 for Autumn Gardens and 0208 886 1034 for Anastasia Lodge. We remain extremely grateful for the continued support we and our staff are receiving from residents and their loved ones at this time.”