Our Home Care Oxford COVID-19 Response
When COVID-19 emerged, Visiting Angels Oxford acted quickly to protect the people who depend on our home care in Oxford. Before official government guidance arrived, our team had already put precautionary measures in place. This post outlines the steps we took to keep clients, families, and caregivers as safe as possible.
Steps We Took Before Official Guidance Arrived
Our team moved fast. Caregivers received regular virus updates and completed specific infection control training. In addition, all staff received communications stressing the critical importance of hand hygiene. Personal protective equipment and hand sanitiser went to every member of the team within days.
Furthermore, any caregiver experiencing symptoms — or known exposure to someone with symptoms — had to self-isolate and inform us immediately.
Enhanced Training Across the Team
Every caregiver came into the office for hands-on COVID-19 training and hand hygiene sessions. NHS and Public Health England guidance informed our approach throughout. Visiting Angels already maintained robust infection control measures. The additional training reinforced those standards and raised awareness across the whole team. As a result, good hygiene became central to every single working practice.
Adapting Visits for Client Safety
Government guidance required some clients to self-isolate. Consequently, certain activities became impossible during this period. We reviewed every client’s schedule to prioritise essential visits. In some cases, a different caregiver attended where the regular carer could not. We managed each situation carefully to minimise disruption while maintaining continuity of care.
Keeping Things in Perspective
Media coverage during the pandemic caused understandable concern for many families. However, we encouraged clients and families to consider the context carefully. Many clients have limited social contact, which naturally reduced their exposure risk. Our rigorous hand hygiene and infection control systems added a further layer of protection for everyone.
As a carer-first provider, Visiting Angels Oxford ensured every caregiver received full sick pay during any absence. This removed pressure to work while unwell and helped protect clients at the same time.
Our Commitment to the Oxford Community
These were challenging times for everyone. Home care is an essential service, and we worked hard to keep delivering it safely. If you would like to find out more about how we support clients and families across Oxford, contact our team today or call 01865 410 791.
