THE REGIONAL manager of two care homes in Harlow has revealed that there have been deaths due to coronavirus in both places.

The daily figures given out by the NHS only refer to deaths at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow.

At this point it is difficult to ascertain how many deaths have been at home or in care homes in Harlow.

There has also been concerns whether staff at care homes have been supplied with personal protective equipment.

So we asked Helen Bennett, Regional Operations Director of ExcelCare Holdings who run Ashlyns Care Home near The Stow and Abbots Care Home off Southern Way in Harlow, the following questions.

1. Can you tell me how many cases of Covid-19 have occurred at Ashlyns and Abbots Care Home in Harlow?

2. How many people have died?

3. How many people have recovered?

4. Would you say staff are supplied with and adequately protected by PPE?

5. Are you still accepting new residents?

Ms Bennett replied: “We are saddened to have lost residents to Coronavirus at both our care homes in Harlow.

The families have been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult time.

“We will not be giving out any further information on these residents.

We also have residents who have recovered from this virus in both homes.

“We are confident that the correct processes based on public health guidance are in place and being adhered to and both homes have adequate PPE in place, including gowns, gloves, face masks and visors most of which has been purchased by the Company.

“We give our thanks to all our committed and dedicated team members who are all trained in infection control and commend them for the compassionate care they deliver to the people we support.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of our residents and team members remains our priority during these difficult times”.

YH has also contacted Runwood Homes, the owners of Alexandra House next to PAH bu they have yet to reply.