RESIDENTS of Spellman Care Homes - in Skipton and South Craven - have all been offered the first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

GPs visited Craven Nursing Home, Skipton; Steeton Court Nursing Home in Steeton, and Springbank Care Home in Silsden, during December and early this month to offer vaccinations to both residents and staff. Vaccinations have also been carried out at the company’s other home in Guiseley.

Director Steven Spellman said it felt like the end of a very difficult time was in sight.

“It is a huge relief that our residents and staff are now vaccinated against Covid-19,” he said.

“After a very tough 2020, it feels like the end of the pandemic is in sight and we are grateful to the local GPs who have supported us through this difficult time.”

Second doses of the vaccine will be followed up in due course in line with the government guidelines, which includes that all care home residents should be offered the vaccine by the end of January.

But, even though vaccinations have now been carried out, the care homes will continue to follow robust infection control and cleaning procedures to keep both residents and staff safe, says the company. The homes are also carrying out regular coronavirus testing.

They have heated ‘visitor pods’ with screens, visits are carefully monitored and staff at the homes offer video calls and regular updates for families.