The Welsh government has confirmed it will allow indoor care home visits in the principality from Saturday 29 August.
The date will subject to favourable conditions and “strict” rules set out in guidance.
First Minister Mark Drakeford (pictured) announced the resumption of visits in a series of measures signalling an easing of lockdown.
“We appreciate how hard it has been for families not seeing their loved ones and the impact restrictions on visiting care homes is having on people’s emotional, mental and even physical health,” he added.
“In an effort to address this we have been working closely with partners and intend to allow indoor visits to care homes to recommence from Saturday 29 August, subject to the strict controls set out in the guidance and conditions remaining favourable.”
National body Care Forum Wales welcomed the move. "Enabling indoor visits can be important for the mental health and wellbeing of residents and their loved ones but it vitally important this is done safely,” said chief executive Mary Wimbury.
"We cautiously welcome this opportunity to provide additional support to care home residents through risk-assessed indoor visits by professionals, family and friends,” she added.
“We are pleased we are being consulted by the Welsh government on the guidance around when such visits might be permissible and appropriate”.
