Coronavirus (COVID-19): use of face coverings in social care settings including adult care homes

Overview

The key points of this guidance are:

• face masks are the final layer of protection from COVID-19, the other layers of protection include physical distancing, hand hygiene, enhanced cleaning, and good ventilation remain paramount
• remember “hand hygiene” – every time you change or touch your mask or face covering
• all staff are should ensure they comply with the face covering regulations which includes, at minimum, staff wearing face coverings or masks in communal areas in workplaces, unless exempt or in situations as detailed in the exemptions
• all staff providing direct care should wear a Fluid Resistant Surgical Mask (FRSM), as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE),  throughout their shift as per the guidance. Staff in non-direct care roles - such as domestic, administration, or management- are recommended to wear a FRSM, in replace of a face covering, in instances where contact with care home residents, service users and/ or tenants is anticipated
• residents in a care home are not required to wear a FRSM or face covering within the care home, which is first and foremost their own home. It is a residents choice whether to wear one as an additional layer of protection, and all times the needs and choices of care home residents should be the primary consideration
• individuals receiving care within their own home, including supported and sheltered housing, are not required to wear a FRSM or face covering within their home. It is their choice whether to wear a face covering when care staff are providing care within their home
• visitors to care homes should continue to follow Open with Care Guidance and are asked to stringently abide by infection prevention and control measures contained in the IPC Winter Respiratory Addendum including wearing face coverings, as advised by care staff
• visitors to individual's own homes and supported housing settings should follow rules and guidance on wearing face coverings and consider the measures that can be taken to protect yourself and others when meeting with individuals in indoor environments. If the setting is registered with the Care Inspectorate as an adult care home, visitors should follow Open with Care guidance