SIR: I was very disappointed to read the negative and disparaging views of Councillor David Harrison (Chronicle, May 28) regarding the support given to vulnerable people in care homes in Hampshire during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The past two months or so have presented the greatest challenge ever seen in the provision of adult social care. There have been many weeks of difficult, painstaking work by staff and managers, both in Local Authority run homes, as well as in the wider independent sector, to support our most vulnerable citizens. As a Local Authority we have gone to enormous lengths to support the sector to meet these challenges. Efforts have included financial aid, both from our own resources, as well as the swift distribution of much needed national funds, and support with securing vital personal protective equipment, plus the implementation of stringent infection control measures.

Furthermore, in support of the sector, we have been transparent with our regulatory bodies around the impact of Covid-19 on the Local Authority and the measures in place to reduce the rate of transmission – and of course, we would be happy to explain this further to Cllr Harrison. We will, of course also be bringing updates and information to committees and other bodies as learning and insights are obtained in due course. For now, we remain in the throes of responding to the extreme challenges the pandemic has brought.

While we are now seeing infection rates reducing, there will be some way to go before we are free from the shadow of Coronavirus. In the meantime, with our partners, and alongside the outstanding work of care providers, we will continue to do everything in our power to protect our most vulnerable, their families and carers.

Cllr Liz Fairhurst,

Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health,

Hampshire County Council,

The Castle,

Winchester