Why these Portsmouth carers are looking forward to working on Christmas Day

But for some the holiday is just a working day like any other.

Among those having to work during the festive season are carers who have undoubtedly experienced some of the most challenging moments in their careers due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Assistant care unit manager from Waterlooville, Tanya Fletcher, will be working in one of Portsmouth City Council's care homes this Christmas Day.

The 56-year-old will spend the day managing her team and supporting care for residents at Shearwater care home in Moorings Way, Southsea, which mainly looks after people with dementia.

Despite the fact strict Covid measures will still be in place, including reduced visitor numbers, Tanya said: 'Christmas Day will be amazing, it will be really fun.

'It's like Christmas at home because all the people here are like one big family - and we help each other out.

'We have got amazing activity co-ordinators who will have things planned. They've already set up grottos on each floor and put up decorations everywhere.

'We've collected presents for the residents from families but they have to remain in isolation for a period so they will be ready for Christmas Day.'

Tanya, who is also due to work on New Year’s Day, said residents will also be treated drinks like non-alcoholic champagne and will watch old classic Christmas films. Residents and staff will also watch the Queen's speech in the afternoon.

She added: 'The Christmas dinner is always great, I'm really looking forward to that. As staff we usually have to bring in our own food but at Christmas we are encouraged to take part - all socially distanced of course.'

Video calls will be set up to ensure residents can still talk to their families on the day, if visits aren't possible.

Other strict measures are in place to keep both staff and residents of the 60-bed home safe.

The three floors are being kept separate for the first time and kitchen staff don't come out and talk to residents like they did previously.

There is also stringent hand washing and sanitising and staff are tested for Covid every week, while residents tested every few weeks. If anyone has symptoms they get tested straight away.

At the start of the pandemic Shearwater home was among other care homes badly hit by coronavirus in the spring.

'It's been such a difficult year as it has for everyone. But we have stayed positive for the sake of our clients,' Tanya said.

As previously reported there have been 44 care home deaths linked to coronavirus in Portsmouth since records began on April 10.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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