Julie Morgan MS, Minister for Health and Social Services
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Care home providers and people living and working in care homes have faced unprecedented challenges during the coronavirus pandemic. This has been an exceptionally difficult time for all involved.
I am very grateful to everyone who has played a part in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and I want to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone in the sector.
Coronavirus has not gone away – this pandemic is not over. It is important we use this summer to reflect on the actions taken over the first few months of the pandemic to support the care sector so we are prepared for the autumn and the potential for a second wave of the virus, together with the annual winter pressures.
I have written to sector leaders today setting out the actions we are taking over the next couple of months to provide support for the care home sector, the workforce and the people they care for. This letter is available at: https://gov.wales/care-homes-action-plan.
We are focusing on six key areas: infection prevention and control; personal protective equipment; general and clinical support for care homes; residents’ wellbeing; social care workers’ wellbeing and financial sustainability. The outcomes from this rapid review will inform our winter planning.
I will provide an update about progress in the autumn.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish us to make a further statement, or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns, we would be happy to do so.