In response to confirmation from the State Government today, Friday 23 April 2021 at 2:40pm, 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 three-day lockdown for the Perth and Peel regions effective from midnight Friday 23 April 2021 through to midnight Monday 26 April 2021.

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 response to the State Government announcement, from 6pm Friday 23 April 2021, all Juniper Perth metropolitan based Residential Care Facilities will have full visitor restrictions in place, through to 9am Tuesday 27 April 2021. Visits will only be permitted for exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the Residential Manager.

During the lockdown period all staff will be wearing face masks.

All student placements and volunteer shifts are cancelled for the period of the lockdown.

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 prepared to provide a 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 throughout this time.

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

Home and Community Care

Our Home and Community Care clients will continue to receive their essential services during the current lockdown. Our staff will wear face masks during visits and will continue to call clients in advance to ask pre-screening questions before attending their residence. It is vital that clients who have attended the locations listed by the health department, please disclose this to staff prior to receiving a visit, to ensure all care is taken when delivering essential support.

Retirement Living

We remind everyone to follow government directions, maintain physical distancing, hand hygiene and cough etiquette to help prevent the spread of infection.

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

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

Key Notes:

• WA Government directive, full three-day lockdown for Perth and Peel regions from midnight Friday 23 April 2021 to midnight Monday 26 April 2021.
• Wearing a mask will be in effect from 6pm Friday 23 April 2021 to midnight Monday 26 April 2021, when out at all times.
• Everyone to stay home unless for essentials: shopping, medical, work – if you cannot work remotely.
• No visits to residential aged care unless for exceptional circumstances.
• Refer to WA Gov website regarding exposure sites.

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