CARE HOME CRISIS
Deaths in R e n f r ews h i r e ’ s coronavirus- hit care homes account for nearly three quarters of the region’s tragic total, the Paisley Daily Express can reveal.
Eleven of the area’s 22 homes have registered a devastating total of 81 deaths.
Earlier this week, it was reported 116 people in Renfrewshire had died after testing positive for Covid-19 between March 16 and April 20, which is the sixth highest rate in Scotland.
The heartbreaking figures came to light in a report by Renfrewshire Council’s chief executive Sandra Black, which also showed there are currently 27 people in the region’s care homes who are suffering from coronaviruslike symptoms.
Council chiefs would not reveal which care homes have been affected and which remained free of the virus. However, the report did detail one of the three homes operated by the health and social care partnership ( HSCP) has reported people having symptoms.
Data released by the National Records of Scotland this week confirmed more than half the country’s Covid- 19 deaths are now happening in care homes.
Ms Black’s report also shows there are a “small but growing” number of people who are receiving care in their own homes with suspected or confirmed Covid-19.
A HSCP spokesman said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of deaths from this virus and we offer our condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.
“The HSCP and partners are doing everything possible to support residents, families and carer s, and provide enhanced support and assurance to care homes
on a daily basis.
“This includes daily contact with all care homes in Renfrewshire, including private homes, to ensure they have full PPE supplies in place, to establish information on any Covid-19 related issues affecting residents, and to offer any support we can provide.
“We continue to have every possible measure in place to minimise the risk of residents becoming unwell and are actively monitoring and responding to the changing situation and sharing information with local GPs.”
Council chiefs have said information is being shared with local GP groups and weekly meetings are taking place with the Care Inspectorate team and the chief social work officer.
‘Just in Case’ medication packs are being supplied to each home to ensure end-oflife care and supporting drugs can be offered immediately.
Ms Black’s report added: “The data available is based on self- reporting by care homes and discussions with the Care Inspectorate.
“The information is subject to frequent change and it is hoped there will be greater clarity as testing becomes more widespread.”