ELDERLY care home residents have finally been reunited with their relatives after spending months in isolation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis, care homes have been no-go zones for residents’ family members and friends.

The decision to shield society’s most vulnerable was made due to older people being more susceptible to the more severe effects of the virus.

But as national lockdown restrictions begin to ease, Colonia Court, in Colchester, has once against started allowing visits.

The visits are being managed in line with national Government guidance.

Each resident is permitted to receive one nominated visitor, who has to complete a lateral flow test which is negative before the visit.

Visits have to be arranged in advance to manage the volume of people and so social distancing can be adhered to and all guests are provided with PPE.

The move has been well received by families and friends who have been enjoying the company of their loved ones within their rooms.

Rebecca Pearson, operations director for Bupa, which runs the home, said: “We understand how important time with loved ones is for our residents’ happiness and wellbeing.

“We’re delighted to restart these visits. We know how much it means for families to hold hands, and the tremendous lift this gives everyone.

“Families are a big part of our community, so we really pleased to be carefully reintroducing these visits again.”

Throughout the pandemic workers at Colonia Court have worked hard to keep families connected.

To manage infection control, the homes installed a visiting pod which is fitted with screens and offered window visits and regular phone and video calls.

Mrs Pearson added: “We have put in place a range of visiting options in line with guidelines so that families can stay connected, whilst keeping residents safe.

“We will continue with all of these, so residents can see more of their loved ones.

“Our teams have worked so hard, and I’m so proud of all our people who have been such heroes over the past year.

“They have shown professionalism, compassion and kindness and gone above and beyond to make residents smile.

“We know the past year has been difficult for families too, missing contact with loved ones as well as wanting us to keep them safe.

“Their support, trust and understanding has been hugely appreciated by us all.”