Brian Whittle MSP has secured the agreement of the First Minister to consider guidance for people visiting loved ones in care homes.
The South Scotland MSP spoke in the Chamber during First Minister’s Questions about a friend whose mother had passed away during lockdown. His friend had been unable to tell his father, who stays in a care home and suffers from dementia, because the family wanted to tell him in person.
Care homes are currently not allowing visitors in most situations but Brian has asked the First Minister to give clear guidance about when an exemption is appropriate. The First Minister agreed to consider providing guidance and confirmed that there are already exceptional circumstances, such as when someone is receiving end of life care, where visiting is allowed.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“Lockdown has been a challenging experience for us all, but for those in care homes and their families, it can be particularly difficult.
Sadly, I’m sure there are many families who are desperate to see their loved ones but are unable to do so while such tight restrictions are in place.
Even as some lockdown restrictions are eased, care homes and hospitals are likely to still have visiting restrictions for some time to come.
I’m pleased the First Minister has agreed to look at giving care homes more guidance about circumstances where visiting would be allowed and hope it will bring some comfort to families.”
