Coronavirus: Portsmouth councillors 'to register complaint' after CQC inspectors cancel meeting appearance

CQC inspectors Rebecca Bauers, who is the head of adult social care for the south, and Kay Puddle, inspection manager, were requested to visit the Health Overview Scrutiny Panel in Portsmouth to talk about the CQC's annual State of Care report, published in October last year, which stated that Portsmouth had the lowest percentage of residential homes rated good or outstanding for care homes in July 2019, following an article in The News.

The ratings in Portsmouth have since improved.

However the item has been moved to the next meeting in June and chair of the committee, Councillor Chris Attwell, told the panel, which met at the Portsmouth Guildhall yesterday, that ‘they decided not to attend due to Covid-19.’

Councillor Leo Madden said: ‘We need to register a complaint about this to Public Health England.’

Councillor Philip Raffaelli added: ‘I don’t believe this is CQC policy. If it is then it should be made public. It is the wrong message to be sending.’

CQC hospitals inspection manager for south east, Sarah Ivory-Donelly, did attend the meeting to talk about Queen Alexandra’s latest CQC report.

In a statement after the meeting Ms Bauers said that the CQC had contacted the panel on Wednesday and Thursday, and spoken to Cllr Attwell on Thursday.

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She sad: ‘While we understand it is frustrating to cancel at short notice, we offered our apologies and confirmed on both occasions we would not be attending the meeting on the March 12 and explained the reason why. ‘All information needed was given to the Hosp prior to the meeting. I also offered to attend the next meeting. While CQC are not obliged to attend these meetings we do our best to ensure attendance. Other CQC colleagues were in attendance.’

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS