Calls for the Government to extend Covid-19 testing to Hartfields after spike in suspected cases

The Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, which runs Hartfields at Bishop Cuthbert, say they are doing everything possible to keep residents and staff safe.

Hartlepool MP Mike Hill recently wrote to Health Secretary Matt Hancock to ask for Covid-19 testing to be extended to care villages after being contacted by the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, plus Hartfields staff and residents.

Chris Simpson, Executive Director of the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, said they are calling on the Government to make testing available for all retirement villages.

He said: “Nothing matters more to us than keeping everyone safe and well while we respond to coronavirus.

“From the outset, we have been following Public Health England guidance in relation to infection control.

“We are pleased to see the issues facing domiciliary care providers are starting to receive the attention they deserve.

“Our residents are vulnerable and they deserve the clarity and reassurance coronavirus testing would provide them.”

Mr Hill said he acted after Hartfields experienced an increase in the last two weeks of residents and carers showing Covid-19 symptoms, leading to some hospitalisations and 10 carers self isolating.

He has also worked with Hartlepool Borough Council, the NHS and the Local Resilience Forum to support Hartfields which provides supported living and residential accommodation to over 300 people.

He said: “Sadly there has recently been a spike in coronavirous related problems there and I am grateful for both the JRF for bringing this to my attention as well as worried staff and residents.”

He added: “Government guidelines subsequently changed to allow testing for those aged 65 and over, plus families and carers so that means in theory that the vast majority of people in residence and working at Hartfields should be covered.”

Last week, the government announced that testing was being extended to all key workers.

The situation at Hartfields is now said to have stabilised along with sufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) getting through and back up social care support being provided to cover for self-isolating staff.

He is also pushing officials for mobile testing to take place on site.

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