Residents at a care home in Shirebrook are enjoying family visits for the first time since March thanks to the care home’s new visiting room.

The privately-owned Richmond Care Home has converted a downstairs room to create a Covid-secure visiting space with a glass screen and microphones.

Kate Birch, care home manager, said it gives families much-needed reassurance that can only be achieved by seeing their loved ones in person.

She said: “We have closed our doors to visitors throughout the pandemic for everyone’s safety, but it has becoming increasingly important for our residents and their families to interact. While we encourage face-to-face calls and window visits, there’s nothing like sitting in the same room.”

In addition to the new room, the care home is taking extra precautions to keep its residents safe, including contactless toilets, sinks and light switches.

Kate added: “Our residents are very dear to us and we do all we can to protect them — physically and mentally. It’s wonderful to see them enjoying time with their families once more.”

Richmond Care Home is a privately-owned and family-run care home, offering residential and dementia care for up to 40 people. If you are interested in learning more about Richmond Care Home, call 01623 748474 or email [email protected]