COVID-19

Bluebird Care COVID-19 Statement

Bluebird Care's central Franchise Support Centre is keeping fully abreast of developments relating to the continued spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) across the UK and Ireland. We are routinely monitoring developments, reviewing our protocols, and preparing appropriate responses as the situation evolves. Bluebird Care is committed to ensuring all steps are taken to protect the health and wellbeing of all our colleagues and customers.

Just as we have done previously in preparation for and during virus outbreaks, Bluebird Care continues to work closely with Health Authorities, UKHCA/Scottish Care and Care Regulators in order to protect colleagues and customers and maintain service delivery. Every Bluebird Care Franchise is keeping their Business Continuity Plans under review in preparation for a possible escalation of the outbreak. 

Advice for prevention

At the time of writing this notice, there has been a number of cases reported in the UK and this number is steadily rising. However, as with any other virus, the best way to prevent infection and spread is to avoid being exposed to it. You can help to prevent the spread of any respiratory outbreak by doing the following:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Always wash your hands when you get home or into work
• Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the bin straight away, or sneeze into the bend of your elbow, then wash your hands.
• Avoid close contact with persons who have respiratory illness symptoms.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• If you are unwell, stay at home and contact the 111 Coronavirus helpline (valid in all countries of the UK)
• If you are asked to self-isolate please follow the NHS Advice
• If a member of staff has a positive confirmed diagnosis of Coronavirus the local Bluebird Care Franchise will prepare a list of all customers and staff the affected person has been in contact with for at least the preceding 14 days and report this to the 111 Coronavirus helpline.

Travel

For those who need to travel, please stay current with COVID-19 developments and travel advice found at the Gov.uk website. Exercise caution while traveling, practice the above prevention points.

Useful links for further up to date information

For the most up-to-date information you can visit The Department of Health and Social Care or see the below links for various official sources.

• Gov.uk – Action Plan
• World Health Organisation
  • Advice for the public
  • FAQ on coronaviruses (COVID-19)
• For comprehensive information about COVID-19, please visit:
  • Public Health England
  • Public Health Wales
  • Health Protection Scotland
  • Public Health Agency (Northern Ireland)

As epidemics/pandemics can change quickly and unpredictably, it will be important to stay updated on the latest Bluebird Care information regarding COVID-19. It is our intent to not overload you with information, but we will make regular updates as and when necessary.