Staff experience of Croydon's care homes during Covid 19
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As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Croydon’s Care Homes had to respond quickly to protect their residents and the staff that look after them. To understand more about the challenges, they went through and learn more, they undertook a series of surveys with residents, friends and family and staff between August and October 2020. They heard from 160 staff.
Staff were able to cope and knew where to get help: over nine in ten have been able to cope during the coronavirus pandemic and the same number knew where to get support.
Most felt safe at work and supported by their employer: 87% felt supported by their employer; 81% felt safe at work and where they had concerns these were addressed. Most had a positive approval of their management.
Most could access PPE, but one in five could not access a COVID test: 89% could access PPE when they needed it and 80% could access a COVID test; 87% felt the self-isolation process was effective. Some felt the PPE came late, but most felt quite safe.
Most felt that their workplace was prepared for future outbreaks, but mental health and wellbeing services were needed to support them: 91% felt that the workplace is prepared if there are future outbreaks; however only 73% felt that available mental health and wellbeing services are supporting their needs effectively.
Information and support by NHS and social care generally good: Many felt they had the right amount of information and most felt supported effectively by the NHS and social care services. One area of consideration was how staff are seen in comparison to those in NHS. There is a sense while NHS staff are being noticed, thanked and rewarded, care home staff are not being recognised as well, and cannot access similar benefits and pay but are doing as important a job. While most had a good relationship with NHS partners, some did have difficult conversations.
Moving forward: Many staff felt there were no improvements needed. Of those who did want to see improvements, these were around PPE, financial rewards, staff support and transport and testing.
The report contains 6 recommendations.