COVID-19 Update 31 January 2021, 3:51pm

In response to confirmation from the State Government on Sunday 31 January 2021 at 12:50pm, that community transmission of COVID-19 exists in Western Australia, this update provides details on Juniper’s response to ensure the best protection for our residents, clients, staff and volunteers.

The WA State Government has declared a full lockdown for the Perth, Peel and South West Regions effective from 6pm Sunday 31 January 2021 through until 6pm Friday 5 February 2021.  The full announcement can be read here.

COVID-19 is highly contagious and protecting the health and safety of our residents, clients, staff and volunteers is our top priority.

Residential Aged Care

In line with the WA State Directives, all Juniper Perth metropolitan based Residential Care Facilities will have full visitor restrictions in place from 6pm, Sunday 31st January 2021 through to 6pm Friday 5 February 2021.  Visits will only be permitted for exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the Residential Manager.

We understand the importance of keeping our Residential Care Facilities residents and families connected as much as possible during times of restricted visitation and we are committed to helping residents and their loved ones stay in regular contact. Our residential care teams will assist with video and phone calls between residents and families.

Our therapy teams are already busy planning an increased range of enjoyable activities to help residents stay busy and entertained. We will be working with the families of residents to ensure communication is continued through this time.

Families are encouraged to contact the Residential Manager at their facility for any questions they have.

Home and Community Care

• Juniper Home & Community Care Clients will continue to receive essential services during the current lockdown.
• Staff will wear masks during visits.
• Staff will continue to call clients to ask pre-screening questions prior to attending.
• It is vital that anyone who is at risk or who has attended the sites listed by the health department disclose this to staff prior to receiving a visit to ensure all care is taken when delivering essential supports.

Retirement Living

A big thanks to our retirement village communities who continue to respond well to the COVID-19 situation. We remind everyone to maintain good practices, maintain physical distancing, hand hygiene and cough etiquette to help prevent the spread of infection.

During the State lock down restrictions, the Juniper retirement living coordinators will be working from home.

Currently no Juniper staff or resident has tested positive for COVID-19.

This information will be updated as further information comes to hand.

• WA Government directive, full lockdown – Perth, Peel, South West from 6pm Sunday 31 January 2021 to 6pm Friday 5 February 2021.
• Everyone to stay home unless for essentials: shopping, medical, work.  If you can work from home do.
• No visits to residential aged care unless for exceptional circumstances.
• Wear a mask when out at all times.
• Refer to WA Gov website regarding closed businesses.

Other COVID-19 information resources:

• health.gov.au
• WA Health
• 24-hr Coronavirus Health Information Line – 1800 020 080

MEDIA ENQUIRIES

Mel Newcombe
Clarity Communications
0410 461 816
mel.newcombe@claritycommunications.com.au