From The CEO
Coronavirus represents a significant risk to our immunocompromised participants and clients, and I wanted to advise you of the precautions we are taking at Somerville to protect our participants, clients, staff and visitors against infection.
We have a working group consisting of management and key personnel from across the organisation who are monitoring the situation closely. The group are meeting regularly and are guided by updates provided by the Australian Government and the Northern Territory Department of Health.
Travel
Given the spread of the virus and the risk it poses to our participants and clients on 10 March Somerville implemented a mandatory 14-day exclusion from the workplace for all staff who undertake international travel.
All non-essential interstate travel by staff has been cancelled.
Hygiene
To reinforce appropriate personal hygiene practices all staff have completed online training made available by DSC on “Supporting People to Stay Infection Free”. Disinfectant hand gel and wipes have also been supplied to all facilities.
Cleaning
Our cleaning regimes at all our offices and houses has increased to include the regular wiping down of all surfaces and door handles. We have also ensured the ongoing supply of essential supplies to our Disability Houses including both cleaning and personal protective items.
Visits to Houses
To minimise the risk of infection we are restricting non-essential and unnecessary visits of personnel to our Disability Houses. We are also working with other agencies to share protocols regarding shared participants.
We understand that parents/ guardians will want to visit their loved ones, but we ask that they limit these visits and accept the protocols our staff are following to protect against infection.
Please be assured that the wellbeing of our participants, clients, staff and visitors is our highest priority.
If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate in contacting Debbie Bampton General Manager Community Services on 0439 926 944 or Tahlia Joy Director of Disability Services on 0419 031 528.
Regards
Lawson Broad
Chief Executive Officer
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