Chesil Lodge resident refused coronavirus testing kit

According to the daughter of a Chesil Lodge homeowner, one of her mother's neighbours is showing symptoms of the virus.

But because the facility is not considered a care home, a test kit cannot be administered.

The daughter, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the Chronicle: "Chesil Lodge lost only three residents during the peak of the crisis and this was solely down to the care team vigilance.

"It has a suspected Covid-19 case right now but cannot get a test kit. Recently they were advised, yet again, it is because they are an extra care facility and not defined as a care home.

"This 'care home' definition is flimsy and irresponsible. My ears on the ground tell me that a care home in St Cross in Winchester has two residents with the virus, brought in either by relatives or staff.

"I am fearful that an identity crisis is developing in plain sight of the local authorities which could both undermine the concept of Chesil Lodge and the health of its residents."

She has since been in contact with Hampshire County Council.

Graham Allen, director of adults' health and care, said: "The testing regime is being rolled-out at pace by Government and we are very much aware of the need to ensure access to testing in a wider variety of settings and accommodation types beyond those currently prioritised, namely care homes supporting older people and specifically settings supporting people with dementia.

"I am and have been actively pursuing this issue particular through the Local Resilience Forum (LRF) which is made up of all public bodies, including the NHS and other partners. All care settings, including extra-care, supported living and care homes for younger adults need to be supported to have access to the testing regime."

The Chronicle has contacted Winchester City Council, which is responsible for the housing at Chesil Lodge.

The council is yet to respond – despite being asked for a comment on September 15.