Homeless charity Depaul says it is providing daily updates and guidance to all its service users and staff as part of a number of measures aimed at managing an outbreak of Covid-19.
Depaul have been coordinating efforts with statutory partners and other homeless organisations, as well as taking advice from the Public Health Authority to work to prevent an outbreak within homeless services.
The measures being taken include:
• Limiting transfers between homeless services.
• Reducing contact with health care professionals, where possible.
• Facilitating mobile phone consultations.
• All non-essential health appointments cancelled.
• Providing daily updates and raising awareness among all service users.
• Limiting unnecessary visits to services.
• All non-service staff to stay away from services.
• Staff with flu-like symptoms, regardless of travel, should self-isolate for 14 days and seek medical advice.
• Staff should make known any travel plans and arrangements.
Depaul’s clinical nurse manager, Jess Sears, said: “Given the complex health issues of those within homeless services, we are taking every step to ensure there is no outbreak within homeless services. We have been working closely with the Public Health Authority and seeking advice on a daily basis, as well as coordinating efforts with statutory partners and other organisations within the sector.
“As many services operate within congregated settings, it is imperative we do all we can to prevent infection. We are very aware that any outbreak could be detrimental to the health of the homeless population. We are really pleased with the support of the Public Health Authority and will continue to liaise with them and seek advice.”
Depaul provides 30 services across Ireland, including temporary accommodations, long-term accommodation, in-reach support to direct provision centres and supports within community settings.