2. Statement by the First Minister: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 11:30 am on 10 June 2020.

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Photo of David Rees David Rees Labour 11:30, 10 June 2020

Diolch, Llywydd. First Minister, we've literally received a notification from Albert Heaney within minutes of the guidance that may be changing for care homes and visits to care homes. I've received constituents' concerns regarding the ability to visit relatives in care homes who may be suffering with dementia. There are some excellent examples, Sŵn-y-Môr in Aberavon actually uses video contacting, video on FaceTime. They'll go around every resident to ensure that every member of their family has a chance to see them. That's not possible in all care homes.

Now, the letter that's just come out gives an indication that they're seeking comments from the public, and guidance will be published in coming weeks, but your review is scheduled for next week. Can you give us an indication as to whether there will be opportunities for care homes that are COVID-free to actually allow visits from families, particularly to members who have dementia, who see a friendly family face as crucial to their mental well-being? Is that part of your thinking on that guidance?