Joy for Buxton care home as all residents are vaccinated

Portland Nursing Home was visited by two GPs on January 16, who immunised 16 residents and 35 staff members.

Mary Gregory, 89, a resident at the home, was one of the first to receive the jab.

She said: “I feel so much better now that I’ve received the vaccine.”

Kaye Fogarty, home manager, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has brought incredibly challenging times for all of our staff and residents, but being provided with this protection and a glimmer of hope is a landmark moment for us all.

“It’s a huge relief for our staff, who have given so much during this pandemic, prioritising the health and care of our residents.

“We are not out of the woods yet, everyone must still remain vigilant and I would urge people to follow the guidance in full, stay at home unless essential and help stop the spread of the virus.”

The home continues to follow strict safety procedures, with all visits being cancelled while the country is in its third national lockdown.

Staff have worked hard to ensure that residents have had regular contact with their families by phone or video call, but close up, face to face conversations have not been possible.

Portland is also pleased to be welcoming new residents and has specific procedures in place to continue to support families who are looking for care for a loved one, while minimising the risk for residents and staff.