Mansfield care home residents finally reuniting with relatives

Residents at Langwith Lodge Residential Home in Nether Langwith have been unable to see relatives in person for months, and are hoping that the pods will be in use, if weather permits, just in time for Father’s Day.

The clever design incorporates an internal floor-to-ceiling transparent PVC screen, which allows the resident to see their loved one in a safe, enclosed environment, whilst maintaining social distancing.

The pods have two entrances, and are sanitised between uses.

Home manager Zoe Searston said: “We are thrilled to have our visitor pod, which we feel will put families’ minds at ease.

“We’ve kept in contact throughout the last few weeks, but nothing is as reassuring as seeing a loved one in person and being able to chat face to face.

“The pods will no doubt benefit residents’ mental health and well-being.”

Resident Fred Winters, 85, said: “To see my family in that pod will put me on top of the world. I know I have my phone and have rung them, but being outside and knowing they're here, no words can describe how I'll feel, especially if my little Evie can come. I know I can't touch them, but seeing them is enough.”

Visitors arrange an appointment, and are then allocated a mutually convenient time to see their loved one – this allows for the pods to be cleaned thoroughly between reunions.

Your Health Limited Managing Director, Victoria Weller, explains proudly: “Langwith Lodge was one of the first homes in the area to close, and has not taken any new admissions

without a clear Covid-19 test result.

“We believe this decision has saved lives.

“The carers have been working so hard to keep the residents connected with their loved ones during the lockdown using phones and iPads, but there is something very special

about seeing someone in person, though.”

Your Health Limited is rolling out the innovative ‘visitor pods’ in all of its homes to allow residents to receive visitors in a safe way.