CARE home bosses are “optimistic” after the Government released its plan to come out of lockdown.

This week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson released his four-step plan to get England out of its third lockdown.

On March 8, new rules will allow each care home resident in England to have one regular visitor, who can even hold their hand.

Registered manager Karen Johnson has led the team at Down Hall Residential Care Home, in Bradwell, for almost 15 years.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Karen Johnson, manager at Down Hall Residential Care HomeKaren Johnson, manager at Down Hall Residential Care Home

She said: “Everyone at Down Hall is looking forward to reopening our doors once again.

“We have a lot of sympathy for our residents and their family members.

“It’s been a distressing time for everyone, so it’s lovely that our residents and their family will be reunited.”

The team were able to book their vaccine appointments as soon as the vaccine was announced in December, and many staff members have now also had their second dose.

Residents were vaccinated at the start of February.

Staff have kept families updated regularly, assisted residents with the letters and photos they received from their loved ones, and helped residents keep in contact with their family and friends by facilitating video calls.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Down Hall Residential Care HomeDown Hall Residential Care Home

Karen added: “It’s likely that once residents and their relatives have nominated a visitor, the visits will be by appointment only. We have PPE for them to wear and they will need to be tested before the visit.

“During the summer we set up a visitor pod and window visits.

“We’re just awaiting further guidance from Essex County Council to find out if these can continue, to allow those family members not nominated to safely visit their loved one.

“The video calls have proved invaluable, especially during lockdowns when relatives are not able to visit.

“It’s vital for families to be able to keep in touch with their loved ones.

“It’s hugely reassuring for the families to be able to see how their relatives are doing, and to know they’re well and looked after.”

For more information on the new rules, which start from next month, visit gov.uk.