Wellbeing Pods to reunite Heckmondwike care home residents with loved ones

The pods will allow residents to meet family and friends in a socially distanced face-to-face way without the risk of spreading the infection.

Two pods will cost £50,000 and will go to care homes in Heckmondwike (Claremont House) and Newsome (Castle Grange).

Councillor Musarrat Khan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care said:“I am delighted about the Wellbeing Pods for our care homes.

“We recognise the mental health impact of the coronavirus lockdown and how it has been particularly difficult for our elderly residents in care homes. Face-to-face contact was halted to prevent the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable residents from becoming ill.

“These pods will enable residents to see their loved ones again in a safe manner which will be a huge boost to their mental wellbeing”.

Other visitors such as social workers and other health professionals will also be able to use the pods to meet residents in a safe space, with family involvement.

The council anticipates having the Wellbeing Pods up and running by the end of August.