Covid-19 Policy

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors associated with Morning Stars Care Ltd, in all locations and during all care-related activities.

Infection Prevention

• - All staff must follow Public Health England (PHE) and NHS guidance.
• - Regular hand hygiene must be maintained using soap and water or hand sanitizer.
• - Surfaces and equipment are to be disinfected frequently.
• - PPE (including gloves and aprons) must be used appropriately and changed between clients.

Face Coverings

• - Masks are mandatory at all times during home visits and when interacting with clients or colleagues.
• - Staffs are provided with Type IIR surgical masks and must ensure proper fitting.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements

• - COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all staff, except where a valid medical exemption is provided.
• - Proof of vaccination or a medical exemption must be submitted to Human Resources prior to undertaking any client-facing duties.
• - Booster vaccinations are strongly encouraged to maintain optimal protection and reduce risk.

Sick Leave and Reporting Procedures

• - Staff exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever, persistent cough, or loss of taste or smell) must immediately notify management and must not attend work.
• - All symptomatic staff are required to follow NHS self-isolation and testing guidance.
• - Morning Stars Care Ltd provides paid sick leave in accordance with individual employment contracts and applicable statutory entitlements during COVID-related absences.

COVID-19 Testing

• - Regular COVID-19 testing may be required, especially following known exposure or the onset of symptoms.
• - Lateral flow tests may be provided by Morning Stars Care Ltd or may need to be sourced by the employee as instructed.

Visitor and Client Safety

• - Clients and their families will be kept informed of all relevant safety procedures in place.
• - Staff must conduct pre-visit health checks and ensure that client environments meet infection prevention standards.

Policy Monitoring and Updates

• - This policy is subject to regular review and will be updated as per the latest Government and NHS guidance.
• - All staff will be promptly informed of any significant changes or updates to this policy.

Non-Compliance

• - Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action.
• - The safety and well-being of clients and staff are of utmost importance, and adherence is mandatory.