Covid-19 – reference for health and social care providers and professionals

This page is up to date as at 11 January 2021.

To assist health and social care providers we set out below links to key documents and guidance which have been published and implemented to assist the sector in dealing with the impact of coronavirus. Whilst the links below reflect the most recent position, we suggest that providers also refer to the gov.uk website regularly for updates.

Click here to visit our team page for all our contact details.

The Home Office

NHS surcharge to be scrapped for migrant healthcare workers

The Prime Minister has requested that the Home Office and the DHSC remove NHS and care workers from the NHS surcharge arrangements. Full details are yet to be announced but the latest on this story can be found on the BBC News website. (21 May)

News story – Thousands more health workers to benefit from visa extensions

More than 6,000 frontline health workers will have their visas extended for a year for free, including doctors, nurses and paramedics.

Department of Health and Social Care

Responding to COVID-19: the ethical framework for adult social care

The framework intends to provide support to ongoing response planning and decision-making to ensure that ample consideration is given to a series of ethical values and principles when organising and delivering social care for adults in the context of increasing pressures. Click here for our briefing on the framework.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): hospital discharge service requirements

This document sets out how health and care systems and providers should change their discharging arrangements and the provision of community support during the coronavirus situation.

Care Act easements: guidance for local authorities

This guidance sets out how Local Authorities can use the new Care Act easements, created under the Coronavirus Act 2020, to ensure the best possible care for people in our society during this exceptional period.

The Mental Capacity Act (2005) (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

This guidance is for hospitals, care homes and supervisory bodies and is only valid during the COVID-19 pandemic and applies to those caring for adults who lack the relevant mental capacity to consent to their care and treatment. The principles of the MCA and the safeguards provided by DoLS still apply. A flow chart is provided to assist decision makers and a shortened Urgent Authorisation form is annexed.

Detailed Guidance and a Policy Paper – 15 April 2020

Click here for guidance on coronavirus testing for critical workers who are self-isolating.

The Coronavirus (COVID-19): adult social care action plan provides details of how the government will support the adult social care sector in England throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

The policy paper sets out the government’s plan for:

controlling the spread of infection in care settings
supporting the workforce
supporting independence, supporting people at the end of their lives, and responding to individual needs
supporting local authorities and the providers of care

The plan applies to all settings and contexts in which people receive adult social care. This includes people’s own homes, residential care homes and nursing homes, and other community settings. It applies to people with direct payments and personal budgets, and those who fund their own care.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested (updated 19 May 2020)

Guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test and how to get tested.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): health and well-being of the adult social care workforce (updated 11 May 2020)

This guidance gives advice for those working in adult social care on managing personal mental health and also provides adult social care employers with guidance, tools and advice on how to take care of the well-being of staff at work.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): informing DHSC of the death of a worker in social care (20 May 2020)

This guidance explains how local authorities and social care providers can tell DHSC about the death of an employee or volunteer in social care.

Simplifying the recruitment process for care providers during Covid-19

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, an online platform has been built for care providers to help to simplify their recruitment process. Free training and DBS checks are available. Click here for more information.

NHS test and trace: how it works

An overview of the NHS test and trace service, including what happens if you test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive. (published 27 May 2020)

NHS test and trace: workplace guidance

Guidance on the NHS test and trace service for employers, businesses and workers. (published 27 May 2020). See also our briefing on sick pay entitlement.

Letter from the Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately MP to Council Leaders emphasising the need for data to coordinate national and local response.

The letter highlights that completion of the Capacity Tracker by care homes is a condition of access to the Infection Control Fund for Adult Social Care. Highlights that completion of the Capacity Tracker by care homes is a condition of access to the Infection Control Fund for Adult Social Care – see this link.

Whole Home testing extended and setting up of COVID-19 Support Taskforce

Every care home in England will now be offered a coronavirus test for all residents and staff, even if they have no symptoms. (Press release 8 June 2020)

Adult Social Care Infection Control Fund

Guidance setting out the infection control measures that the infection control fund will support, including information on the distribution of funds and reporting requirements. (9 June 2020)

Guidance for commissioners, people receiving direct payments and care providers

Guidance updated on 10 June 2020.

World first coronavirus treatment approved for NHS use by government

The government has immediately authorised the NHS to use the world’s first coronavirus treatment proven to reduce the risk of death. Click here for the press release (published 16 June)

Steps to take following the death of an adult social care worker

Guidance published on 19 June, see also our briefing.

Press release – Plans to ease guidance for over 2 million shielding from 6 July 2020
New saliva test for coronavirus piloted in Southampton

GP staff, other essential key workers, university employees and members of their households will be among the first groups to participate in the pilot, with test kits delivered either to their home or place of work for them to complete every week.

Thousands to be offered repeat testing in care homes10,000 residents and staff across over 100 care homes will be given coronavirus tests as part of a new surveillance study (published 25 June)
Press release – Health Secretary calls on country to get tested as access is expanded even further

Six new ‘walk through’ local testing sites are now offering appointments to people in England, with the capacity to test hundreds of people each day (26 June 2020).

The Health Service and Social Care Workers (Scrutiny of Coronavirus-related Deaths) Directions 2020 – Statutory guidance

Directions to NHS trusts and NHS foundation trusts in England to ensure the scrutiny of deaths of health service and adult social care staff from coronavirus (COVID-19).

Types and uses of coronavirus (COVID-19) tests – Guidance

Guidance on the different types of coronavirus test available.

Government launches Health and Care Visa to ensure UK health and care services have access to the best global talent

The new Health and Care Visa will make it cheaper, quicker and easier for healthcare professionals from around the world to come to the UK.

New powers and framework to help contain coronavirus (COVID-19) locally

A new framework setting out how to manage COVID-19 outbreaks through the use of national and local expertise has been published by the government.

In-person coronavirus testing continues to deliver results the next day – press release

Sixth week of NHS Test and Trace figures shows anyone getting a test at a regional test site or mobile testing unit can expect their result by the next day.

Press release – Millions could be vaccinated against COVID-19 as UK secures strong portfolio of promising vaccines

The UK has secured early access to 90 million doses of promising coronavirus vaccine candidates.

Oral statement to Parliament – Next stages in the NHS Test and Trace plan

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock spoke about measures to increase testing and support the NHS this winter, and the latest vaccine developments.

Guidance on visiting care homes during COVID-19

This is the delayed guidance from the Government. See also our briefing.

Press release – Most comprehensive flu programme in UK history will be rolled out this winter

Providers will work to vaccinate more than 30 million people during this flu season – millions more than received it last year.

Press release – Face coverings mandatory in shops, supermarkets, shopping centres and enclosed transport hubs from Friday 24 July

Face coverings must be worn in additional enclosed public spaces from 24 July in England, as the government takes further steps to help curb the spread of the virus.

Press release – Health and care workers to self-isolate on return to UK from high-risk countries

Registered health and care professionals travelling to the UK from high-risk countries will be required to self-isolate for 14 days, the government has confirmed.

Press release – NHS Test and Trace launches campaign to encourage everyone with symptoms to get a free test

NHS Test and Trace will launch the new campaign alongside a new business plan to expand testing capacity and prepare the nation for winter.

News story – Statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers on extension of self-isolation period: 30 July 2020

The self-isolation period has been extended to 10 days for those in the community who have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or a positive test result.

Press release – Roll-out of 2 new rapid coronavirus tests ahead of winter

Millions of new rapid coronavirus tests will be rolled out across NHS hospitals, care homes and labs from next week.

Press release – Updates to the shielding programme on national and regional levels

Shielding guidance for clinically extremely vulnerable to be paused from 1 August across England.

Press release – NHS Test and Trace service to strengthen regional contact tracing

NHS Test and Trace and Public Health England will extend its partnership with local authorities to reach more people testing positive and their contacts.

Press release – Research study into long-term health impacts of COVID-19 launched in the UK

One of the world’s largest comprehensive research studies into the long-term health impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) on hospitalised patients has been launched, the Health and Social Care Secretary, Matt Hancock has announced.

Press release – Largest testing programme for coronavirus shows virus continued to decline in June

Press release – Test and Trace

New NHS Test and Trace app begins trial phase, as latest statistics show the service is consistently reaching the majority of people testing positive and their contacts.

Press release – Antibody testing programme for Covid-19

Findings published by Imperial College London today suggest that 6% of the population in England, around 3.4 million people, have been infected with COVID-19.

Press release – £5 million for social prescribing to tackle the impact of COVID-19

The National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) has been awarded £5 million in funding to support people to stay connected and maintain their health and wellbeing following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Correspondence – Secretary of State message to the NHS on the coronavirus response

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock thanks the NHS workforce for the dedication they have shown in the national effort against coronavirus (COVID-19).

Press release – Government creates new National Institute for Health Protection

A brand new organisation whose primary focus is public health protection and infectious disease capability is being established by the government.

Speech – The future of public health

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock spoke at Policy Exchange about the future of public health.

Press release – Expansion of national testing study will offer new COVID-19 insights

Infection survey to expand from testing 28,000 people per fortnight to 150,000 by October.

Statutory Guidance – The Exercise of Commissioning Functions by the NHS Commissioning Board (Coronavirus) (No 2) Directions 2020
Press release – More than half a billion pounds to help people return from hospital

People needing additional follow-on care after being discharged from hospital will be supported by a £588 million fund to cover adult social care or the immediate costs of care in their own home.

Press release – NHS Test and Trace successfully reaches over 80% of close contacts since launch

More than 272,000 people have now been reached by NHS Test and Trace.

Guidance – Overview of adult social care guidance on coronavirus (Covid-19)

Information for adult social care providers on COVID-19 guidance and support.

Guidance – Hospital discharge service: policy and operating model

Sets out how health and care systems should support the safe and timely discharge of people who no longer need to stay in hospital.

Press release – £500m funding for quick result Covid-19 test trials

A new £500 million funding package will be invested in next generation testing technology and increased testing capacity.

Guidance – Supporting people outside of their home

For people who need support when outside their home and people who provide this support during coronavirus (COVID-19).

Guidance – Coronavirus (COVID-19): looking after people who lack mental capacity.

Guidance for health and social care staff who are caring for, or treating, a person who lacks the relevant mental capacity. Updated: ‘The Mental Capacity Act (2005) (MCA) and deprivation of liberty safeguards (DoLS) during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic’. Sections ‘Summary of key points’ and ‘Supervisory bodies’ include updated information about professional visits to care homes and hospitals. Updated attachment: ‘The Mental Capacity Act (2005) (MCA) and deprivation of liberty safeguards (DoLS) during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic: additional guidance’. Section ‘Best interest decisions’ includes updated information about decisions related to elective surgery and other procedures. Sections ‘Depriving a person of their liberty’ and ‘Supervisory bodies’ include updated information about professional visits to care homes and hospitals.

Press release – Government delivers 250,000 clear face masks to support people with hearing loss

250,000 clear face masks are to be delivered to front-line NHS and social care workers to support better care for people who use lip-reading and facial expressions to communicate.

Press release – £500 million funding for quick result COVID-19 test trials

A new £500 million funding package will be invested in next generation testing technology and increased testing capacity.

Press release – New campaign to prevent spread of coronavirus indoors this winter

The ‘Hands. Face. Space’ public information campaign urges the public to continue to wash their hands, cover their face and make space to control infection rates and avoid a second peak.

Guidance – Making a support bubble with another household

How you can safely expand the group of people you have close contact with during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Guidance – Coronavirus (COVID-19): testing guidance for employers

Guidance for employers and third-party healthcare providers on the regulations and legal obligations of running testing programmes.

Press release – Largest testing programme for coronavirus reinforces need for vigilance

The third report from the country’s largest study on coronavirus rates of infection has been published today showing that cases are increasing steadily across the country.

Guidance – Overview of adult social care guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)

Information for adult social care providers on COVID-19 guidance and support.

Correspondence – COVID-19 infection rises: letter to care providers from Director of Adult Social Care Delivery

Stuart Miller has written to care providers to highlight rising infection rates and request action on testing and PPE in all care settings.

Press release – New measures to improve patient care ahead of winter

A&Es in 25 hospitals will receive a share of £150 million in funding to upgrade, reduce overcrowding and improve infection control ahead of winter.

Press release – More than £500 million for social care to reduce coronavirus transmission over winter

Care providers will be given an extra £546 million to bolster infection control and help protect residents and staff throughout winter.

Oral statement to Parliament – Oral statement on coronavirus and the government’s plans for winter

Oral statement by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on coronavirus and the government’s plans to put us in the strongest possible position for this winter.

Press release – New Lighthouse Labs to boost NHS Test and Trace capacity

Two new Lighthouse Labs in Newcastle and Bracknell will join the largest network of diagnostic testing facilities created in British history to help scale up testing capacity ahead of winter.

Press release – New plan to help protect care homes from coronavirus over winter

A new adult social care winter plan will aim to curb the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) infections in care settings throughout the winter months.

Guidance – Privacy notice for maintaining records of staff, customers and visitors to support NHS Test and Trace

This privacy notice describes how the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) will process personal data from venues and establishments to support contact tracing.

Guidance – Coronavirus antibody home test kit: taking a blood sample

Guidance and video to help you do your antibody test correctly, post your sample and get your results.

Guidance – Hospital discharge service: policy and operating model

Sets out how health and care systems should support the safe and timely discharge of people who no longer need to stay in hospital.

Oral statement to Parliament – New measures in response to the acceleration of coronavirus

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock spoke about the government response to the recent acceleration of coronavirus, including an isolation support payment and testing allocation.

Press release – NHS COVID-19 app launches across England and Wales

NHS COVID-19 app launches to help control coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission.

Press release – More than 1 in 10 people in England have now been tested for coronavirus

NHS Test and Trace has now reached almost half a million people, including those testing positive and their contacts, to slow the transmission of coronavirus in England.

Guidance – Coronavirus Act analysis

How the Coronavirus Act has helped the government’s response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Press release – New recruitment drive to help 10,000 people with serious mental illness

£27 million has been announced for mental health charity Think Ahead to expand their mental health social work graduate programme.

Press release – New legal duty to self-isolate comes into force today

From 28 September, people in England will be required by law to self-isolate if they test positive or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace.

Press release – Huge increase in UK personal protective equipment production

Robust and resilient PPE supply chains will provide continuous flow to frontline.

Press release – Interim results from largest COVID-19 study published.

Over 80,000 volunteers tested in England between 18 and 26 September as part of the country’s largest study into COVID-19.

Press release – Government invests in UK-developed antibody tests from UK Rapid Test Consortium

The government has signed a deal with the UK Rapid Test Consortium (UK-RTC) for 1 million antibody tests, Health Minister Lord Bethell has announced today.

Oral Statement to Parliament – Coronavirus update on testing and treatments

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock updated Parliament on the government’s response to coronavirus.

Press release – 1 in 8 people in England have now been tested for coronavirus

1 in 8 people have now received a coronavirus test at least once since the launch of NHS Test and Trace on 28 May

Guidance – Comparing methods used in the COVID-19 Infection Survey and NHS Test and Trace, England

The methods used in the coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey and NHS Test and Trace in England and why the data cannot be directly compared.

Speech – Speech to NHS Providers

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care thanked the NHS for its hard work and set out the government’s commitment to supporting the NHS for the future.

Press release – 500 test sites now open as new lab partnerships boost capacity

Partnership with alliance of London university labs will add capacity for tens of thousands more coronavirus tests over the coming months.

Guidance – Test and Trace Support Payment scheme: claiming financial support

Who can claim the support and how to apply.

Press release – Clinically extremely vulnerable receive updated advice tailored to local COVID alert levels

Clinically extremely vulnerable people in England will receive new guidance to help them reduce their risk from coronavirus, tailored to where they live.

Guidance – COVID-19 surveillance

An overview of national surveillance programmes to understand how COVID-19 is present and affecting the wider population.

Guidance – Local COVID alert level: very high

Find out what restrictions are in place if you live in an area where the local COVID alert level is very high.

Guidance – Local COVID alert level: high

Find out what restrictions are in place if you live in an area where the local COVID alert level is high.

Guidance – Local COVID alert level: medium

Find out what restrictions are in place if you live in an area where the local COVID alert level is medium.

Guidance – Local COVID alert levels: what you need to know

Information on local COVID alert levels, including what they mean, why they are being introduced and what the different levels are.

Statutory guidance – Local authority powers to impose restrictions under coronavirus regulations

Supports the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No.3) Regulations 2020 that come into force on 18 July 2020.

Guidance – Full list of local COVID alert levels by area

The areas in England listed as local COVID alert level high and local COVID alert level very high.

Guidance – Test and Trace Support Payment scheme: claiming financial support

Who can claim the support and how to apply.

Press release – New measures to support roll-out of vaccines in the UK

New laws will allow more healthcare workers to administer flu and potential COVID-19 vaccines safely to the public.

Oral statement to Parliament – Coronavirus update on areas in local COVID alert levels

Statement to Parliament about the government’s local action strategy and areas in England that will move into local COVID alert level high from Saturday 17 October.

Press release – Local COVID-19 alert level update: 15 October 2020

The following areas will move from local COVID alert level: medium to local COVID alert level: high from Saturday.

Guidance – Full list of local COVID alert levels by area

The areas in England listed as local COVID alert level high and local COVID alert level very high.

Correspondence – Designated premises scheme: letter to directors of adult social services

The letter sets out arrangements for the Care Quality Commission designated premises scheme for people discharged to a care home with a positive COVID-19 test.

Press release – Millions of extra flu jabs available to support largest UK vaccination programme

Over 30 million people to be vaccinated this year to protect them from flu and support the NHS.

Press release – Health Secretary warns of long-term effects of Covid-19 as new film released

New data suggests long Covid affects around 10% of 18 to 49 year olds who become unwell with Covid-19.

Correspondence – designated premises scheme: letter to directors of adult social services

The letter sets out arrangements for the Care Quality Commission designated premises scheme for people discharged to a care home with a positive COVID-19 test.

Press release – millions of extra flu jabs available to support largest UK vaccination programme

Over 30 million people to be vaccinated this year to protect them from flu and support the NHS.

Speech – Coronavirus debate: opening speech

Speech by Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to open a debate in House of Commons on the coronavirus pandemic.

Press release – Largest COVID-19 antibody testing programme publishes findings on antibody response over time

Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show the number of people with antibodies fell by 26.5% over 3 months.

Press release – Latest interim findings from COVID-19 study published

Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show the number of infections continues to rise across all regions.

Press release – NHS Covid-19 app updates across England and Wales

Updates to the app will make it more accurate and user-friendly.

Press release – NHS Test and Trace managing record number of cases

Figures released today show that NHS Test and Trace is providing more tests, processing more tests, and successfully reaching more people than ever before.

Decision – Temporary approval to suspend the need for signatures on prescriptions, dental and ophthalmic forms

Temporary approval to suspend the need for patients to sign prescription, dental and ophthalmic forms for a period of 5 months to 31 March 2021.

Press release – 500,000 daily testing capacity reached in ongoing drive to boost test and trace

The UK’s daily coronavirus testing capacity passed the 500,000 mark on Saturday 31 October.

Press release – Liverpool to be regularly tested for coronavirus in first whole city testing pilot

Everyone living or working in Liverpool will be offered COVID-19 testing, whether they have symptoms or not.

Press release – Clinically extremely vulnerable receive updated guidance in line with new national restrictions

Further precautions advised on top of the tougher national measures being introduced, as cases continue to rise.

Press release – New guidance to support safe care home visits during lockdown

Care homes will be encouraged and supported to provide safe visiting opportunities as new national restrictions come into effect.

Guidance – COVID-19 testing in general practice

Information for general practices on providing coronavirus (COVID-19) testing.

Guidance – Adult Social Care Infection Control Fund: round 2

Sets out the infection control measures that the new infection control fund will support, including information on the distribution of funds and reporting requirements.

Guidance – Making a childcare bubble with another household

How you can get informal childcare for children aged 13 or under from friends and family you do not live with.

Guidance – Visiting care homes during coronavirus

Sets out how care homes can allow families and visitors to visit residents while national restrictions are in place.

Correspondence – Thanking general practice and community pharmacy staff for their work during the pandemic

Letters of thanks from Jo Churchill MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Prevention, Public Health and Primary Care.

Press release – Pilot for family members to get regular testing for safer care home visits

Named family and friends may soon be able to regularly visit loved ones in care homes as a new testing pilot is launched.

Press release – Two new megalabs to open in 2021 to transform the UK’s diagnostic facilities

The labs in Leamington Spa and Scotland will add 600,000 to the UK’s daily testing capacity when operating at full capacity, meaning faster turnaround times for test results.

Press release – £12.2 million boost for genomic surveillance to help stop transmission of COVID-19

The COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium will use the funding to expand whole genome sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Press release – Royal Mail to collect COVID-19 test kits 7 days a week

Royal Mail is introducing a weekend extension for some priority postboxes from 21 November.

Speech – Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 16 November 2020

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – New film shows importance of ventilation to reduce spread of COVID-19

New short film released by the government shows how coronavirus lingers in enclosed spaces, and how to keep your home ventilated.

Guidance – Roll out of lateral flow tests to local authorities

A list of local authorities across England issued with rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) tests by the Department of Health and Social Care.

Guidance – Cohort pool testing for coronavirus (COVID-19)

Information on pooled testing for universities taking part in the pooled testing pilot.

Press release – Government welcomes the MHRA review into Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine

UK’s independent regulator to evaluate latest data from Pfizer and BioNTech to ensure the quality, safety and effectiveness of the vaccine meets the standards required.

Guidance – Local restriction tiers: what you need to know

Sets out the local restriction tier system that will be in place from Wednesday 2 December, including what you can and cannot do in each tier.

Press release – Tiering decisions to be made through national command structure.

All local authorities in England to be placed in one of 3 tiers based on the latest available data.

Written statement to Parliament – Returning to a regional tiered approach

A written statement from the Health and Social Care Secretary to the House of Commons on returning to local COVID restriction tiers in England.

Speech – Renewing regional coronavirus restrictions in England.

The Health and Social Care Secretary spoke to the House of Commons about the coronavirus situation and returning to strengthened local COVID restriction tiers.

Press release – Government asks regulator to approve supply of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine.

The government has formally asked the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency to evaluate whether supply of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine can be authorised.

Press release – UK government secures additional 2 million doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

The UK now has access to a total of 357 million doses of vaccines from 7 different developers.

Speech – Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 30 November 2020.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – Care home residents to be reunited with families by Christmas.

New guidance will safely allow indoor visits to care homes across England as the country moves back into tiered restrictions.

News story – UK authorises Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Government authorises first COVID-19 vaccine on independent advice of medicines regulator.

Speech – An update on the coronavirus vaccine, 2 December 2020. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Matt Hancock gave a statement to the House of Commons about the Pfizer/BioNTech coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

Press release – COVID-19 vaccine authorised by medicines regulator.

The vaccine will be made available across the UK to priority groups from next week.

Press release – Government to add COVID-19 to Vaccine Damage Payments Scheme.

The government is taking this precautionary step in advance of a rollout of an authorised COVID-19 vaccine and in line with other immunisation programmes.

Guidance – Self-declare as a private COVID-19 testing provider
Guidance – Vitamin D supplements: how to take them safely.

Guidance for at-risk groups offered free vitamin D supplements by the government this winter.

Guidance – Visiting arrangements in care homes.

Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents from 2 December.

Guidance – Arrangements for visiting out of the care home.

Sets out how care homes can support residents of working age on visits outside of the care home.

Guidance – Local restriction tiers: what you need to know – alternative formats

Alternative format versions of the guidance on the local restriction tier system, including what you can and cannot do in each tier.

Press release – Over half a million people taking part in pioneering COVID-19 research

637,379 participants from across the UK have now taken part in public health research into the effects of, and treatment for, COVID-19 in just over 8 months.

Press release – Commercial providers of COVID-19 testing urged to sign up to new DHSC webinars

New proposals will see commercial testing accredited solely through UKAS, making the accreditation of private COVID-19 tests faster and more efficient.

Press release – New NHS Test and Trace plan to support return to more normal way of life

The NHS Test and Trace business plan sets out a strategy to increase the speed and reach of testing and tracing, working with local partnerships.

Speech – Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 10 December 2020

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Guidance – Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing service for extra care and supported living settings

Guidance on regular retesting for extra care and supported living settings that meet the eligibility criteria.

Guidance – Coronavirus (COVID-19) lateral flow testing of visitors in care homes

Sets out how care homes and visitors can prepare for visitor testing with lateral flow devices (LFDs).

Promotional material – COVID-19 vaccination: care home and healthcare settings posters

Information and promotional resources to support the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.

Guidance – Additional COVID-19 local authority enforcement powers

Additional powers for local authorities to enforce COVID-secure regulations.

Press release – Business as usual for NHS Test and Trace over Christmas

The NHS Test and Trace service will be open every day over Christmas and the New Year, providing and processing tests for those who need them and tracing contacts of positive cases.

Press release – UK Chief Medical Officers’ statement on the self-isolation period: 11 December 2020

A change to the self-isolation period from 14 to 10 days has been announced.

Oral statement to Parliament – Sharp rise in coronavirus numbers and a new variant

The Health and Social Care Secretary spoke to the House of Commons about the coronavirus situation, vaccinations and new areas to be put into Tier 3.

Speech – Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 14 December 2020

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – More than 137,000 people in UK receive first dose of COVID vaccine in one week

The majority of the vaccines have been administered to the over-80s, care home workers and NHS staff through more than 70 sites across the UK.

Oral statement to Parliament – Oral statement on review of coronavirus tiering restrictions in England

Oral statement by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the outcome of the government’s first formal review of tiering in England, which took place on 16 December 2020.

Press release – Government publishes list of approved COVID-19 test providers

The list of private providers of COVID-19 testing will help employers and individuals set up their own COVID-19 testing programmes.

Guidance – List of private providers of coronavirus testing

Information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19).

Guidance – PPE reimbursement for non-hospital providers

Sets out the process for reimbursing non-hospital care providers for personal protective equipment (PPE) bought as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Press release – Statement from Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, about new strain of COVID-19

New strain of COVID-19 reported to World Health Organization.

Press release – Advice for clinically extremely vulnerable in new Tier 4 areas

This group is advised to stay at home at all times, unless for exercise or medical appointments, and not to attend work, even if they are unable to work from home.

Press release – Targeted community testing extended to 10 more areas

More local authorities to be offered rapid-turnaround lateral flow tests to detect asymptomatic cases and help slow the spread of coronavirus.

Parliament – See Legislation.gov.uk

Coronavirus Bill: Summary of Impacts

This summary of impacts relates to clauses within the Coronavirus Bill. It is noted that the policies in the Bill are designed for use temporarily in an emergency. They are noted to be strong in nature, and risks have been considered and discussed throughout this assessment, but it is recognised that in a pandemic situation, with potentially very high counterfactual costs, firm actions may be the most desirable to protect individuals.

The Coronavirus Act 2020

The Coronavirus Act 2020 is now in force, although some provisions only come into effect by way of regulations.

For a summary of the changes to mental health legislation, read this briefing produced by Tom Ringland and Alexandra Johnstone.

The Coronavirus Act 2020 (Commencement No. 2) Regulations 2020 – Section 15 (local authority care and support) of, and Part 1 of Schedule 12 (powers and duties of local authorities in England) to the Coronavirus Act 2020 came into force on 31 March 2020.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020

Schedule 21 para 24(1) Coronavirus Act 2020 revokes The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/129).

Press release – Interim results from largest COVID-19 study published

Over 80,000 volunteers tested in England between 18 and 26 September as part of the country’s largest study into COVID-19.

Press release – Largest COVID-19 antibody testing programme publishes findings on antibody response over time

Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show the number of people with antibodies fell by 26.5% over 3 months.

Press release – More rapid COVID-19 tests to be rolled out across England

600,000 lateral flow tests to be sent out this week to kick-start the significant expansion of testing, followed by weekly local allocations.

Speech – Baroness Dido Harding’s speech to the CBI Annual Conference

Baroness Dido Harding talks about the achievements of NHS Test and Trace, and the focus to improve the service so that we’re better able to live with COVID through the winter and beyond.

Press release – Oxford University and PHE confirm high-sensitivity of lateral flow tests

Extensive clinical evaluation shows lateral flow tests are accurate and sensitive enough to be used in the community, including for asymptomatic people.

Press release – Latest findings from COVID-19 study published

Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show infections continue to rapidly increase with over 1 in 80 people infected.

Press release – More than 2 million people reached by NHS Test and Trace

NHS Test and Trace has completed a record number of cases during this reporting week, with 85% of people who have tested positive successfully contacted.

Guidance – visiting care homes during Covid-19

Updated 19 December 2020

Guidance – The Mental Capacity Act (2005) (MCA) and deprivation of liberty safeguards (DoLS) during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic: additional guidance

“Offering a vaccine to someone who lacks the relevant mental capacity”

Press release – £149 million to support increased care home testing

Care homes across the country will benefit from additional rapid testing to test staff twice a week to help protect residents and workers from the virus.

Press release – Government tiers review update

Exponential rises in cases in the South East and East of England necessitate decisive action ahead of the formal review on 30 December.

Press release – Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine authorised by UK medicines regulator

Government update on the Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

Press release – Statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers on the prioritisation of first doses of COVID-19 vaccines

Joint clinical advice from the 4 UK Chief Medical Officers on the prioritisation of first doses of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines.

Press release – Second COVID-19 vaccine authorised by medicines regulator

Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine meets regulator’s strict standards of safety, efficacy and quality.

Press release – Formal tiering review update: 30 December 2020

More areas move to Tier 4 to limit the spread of the virus as case rates rise across the country.

Correspondence- Letter to the profession from the UK Chief Medical Officers on the UK COVID-19 vaccination programmes

Letter to the profession from the UK Chief Medical Officers regarding the UK COVID-19 vaccination programmes

News story – COVID-19 alert level: update from the UK Chief Medical Officers

A joint statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) recommending that the UK COVID-19 alert level move from level 4 to level 5.

Speech – Oral statement on new COVID-19 regulations

Oral statement to Parliament by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the new COVID-19 regulations following the move to a national lockdown.

Press release- NHS patients to receive life-saving COVID-19 treatments that could cut hospital time by 10 days

Clinical trial results show the drugs reduce risk of death by 24% for critically ill patients and time spent in intensive care by up to 10 days.

Press release – Moderna COVID-19 vaccine authorised by UK medicines regulator

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has authorised the Moderna vaccine after an extensive analysis of the vaccine’s safety, quality and effectiveness.

Press release – Statement from Vaccine Deployment Minister Nadhim Zahawi on vaccine deployment

Minister Nadhim Zahawi shares his thoughts on the three Covid-19 vaccines and full vaccine deployment plan

Press release- Statement from Chief Medical Adviser for NHS Test and Trace, Susan Hopkins on community testing

Chief Medical Adviser for NHS Test and Trace, Susan Hopkins, on the importance of testing those without symptoms.

Press release – Statement from Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty on national alert levels

Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty writes about the UK’s battle with Covid-19.

Press release – Government to deploy first British-manufactured rapid lateral flow antigen tests for COVID-19

The government has ordered 2 million of the first British-manufactured tests for use in asymptomatic testing.

Press release – Asymptomatic testing to be rolled out across the country starting this week

Community testing offer to be expanded across all local authorities in England to test people without symptoms.

Press release – Government publishes plan for the largest vaccination programme in British history

Government sets out UK COVID-19 vaccines delivery plan for vaccinating tens of millions of people by spring.

Oral statement to Parliament – A vaccine delivery plan for everyone

Minister for COVID Vaccine Deployment Nadhim Zahawi spoke to the House of Commons about the UK COVID-19 vaccines delivery plan.

Cabinet Office

Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can’t do (Updated 1 May 2020)

Government guidance in respect of leaving the house and travel including updated advice for people with learning disabilities or autism.

Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy

This guidance sets out the Government’s road-map for how and when the UK will adjust its response to the COVID-19 crisis (published 11 May 2020).

PM announces further easing of lockdown restrictions from 4 July Press release – 23 June 2020.
Press release – Review of two metre social distancing guidance and summary of review findings (published 24 June)
Press release – Government response to article published in the FT on Wednesday 24 June on ventilators
Press release – Disabled people exempt from wearing face coverings under new government guidance

The Government has set out a list of face covering exemptions, as they are mandatory in additional enclosed spaces from today (Friday 24 July).

Guidance – ‘Please give me space’ social distancing cards or badges

Optional badges that can be used to show the carrier may have difficulties or concerns in maintaining social distancing.

Guidance – What has changed – 9 September

The government has announced new measures to suppress the virus and keep the number of infections down.

Promotional material – Local COVID Alert Level Posters

A series of graphical posters displaying information about the Local COVID Alert Level.

Guidance – New National Restrictions from 5 November

Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available.

Guidance – COVID-19 Winter Plan

The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the end of 2020 and into the start of 2021.

Press release – Joint statement on UK-wide Christmas arrangements from the UK Government and Devolved Administrations

A joint statement on UK-wide Christmas arrangements from the UK Government and Devolved Administrations.

Press release – UK-wide Christmas arrangements agreed by the UK Government and the Devolved Administrations.

The UK Government and the Devolved Administrations have agreed on joint arrangements for an easing of social restrictions that will allow friends and loved ones to reunite over the Christmas period.

Guidance – Guidance for the Christmas period

Guidance for the Christmas period.

Guidance – Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family

Meeting friends and family over the Christmas period – forming a Christmas Bubble.

Guidance – Lockdown 3 restrictions

What you can and can’t do during Lockdown 3.

The Prime Minister’s office

Speech – Chief Scientific Advisor and Chief Medical Officer briefing on coronavirus (COVID-19): 21 September 2020

Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty gave a data briefing on coronavirus.

Speech – PM Commons statement on coronavirus: 22 September 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement on coronavirus to the House of Commons.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 30 September 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Oral statement to Parliament – PM Commons statement on coronavirus: 12 October 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement on coronavirus to the House of Commons.

Press release – Prime Minister announces new local Covid alert levels

Details on new local COVID Alert Levels set out by the Prime Minister.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 16 October 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 20 October 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 22 October 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 31 October 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – Prime Minister announces new national restrictions

From Thursday 5 November, everyone must stay at home, with a limited set of exemptions.

Oral statement to Parliament – PM Commons statement on coronavirus: 2 November

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement on coronavirus to the House of Commons.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 5 November 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 9 November 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – PM hails ‘herculean effort’ of life science companies to defeat coronavirus

Prime Minister Boris Johnson hosted a discussion with heads of leading life science and pharmaceutical companies on coronavirus and the prevention of future pandemics.

Oral statement to Parliament – PM statement on COVID-19 Winter Plan: 23 November 2020

PM Boris Johnson made a statement on the COVID-19 Winter Plan.

Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 26 November 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – Community testing to help lift restrictions in highest tiers

Details have been set out by the Government to help local areas detect asymptomatic cases and offer a route out of the toughest restrictions.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on coronavirus regulations: 1 December 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement to the House of Commons.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 2 December 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 16 December 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 19 December 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Press release – Prime Minister announces Tier 4: ‘Stay At Home’ Alert Level in response to new COVID variant

The Prime Minister has announced tougher restrictions for parts of England with a new Tier 4: ‘Stay at Home’ alert level.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 30 December 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s address to the nation: 4 January 2021

Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s address to the nation on coronavirus on 4 January 2021.

Press release – Prime Minister announces national lockdown

The Prime Minister has announced a national lockdown and instructed people to stay at home to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 5 January 2021

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on COVID-19 regulations: 6 January 2021

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement to the House of Commons.

Speech – Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 7 January 2021

Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.

Disclosure and Barring Service

COVID-19: Changes to standard and enhanced ID checking guidelines

To ensure that the necessary DBS checks can still be carried out, the DBS standard and enhanced ID checking guidance will be changed for a temporary period. The change is in effect from 19 March 2020 and allows for ID documents to be viewed over video link and scanned images to be used in advance of the DBS check being submitted.

Quicker recruitment during COVID-19

Measures have been put in place to provide DBS checks and fast-track emergency checks of the Adults’ and Children’s Barred Lists, free-of-charge. This will apply to healthcare and social care workers being recruited in response to the COVID-19 emergency.

The new measures will permit employers to appoint new recruits into the sector so long as they are not barred and that appropriate steps are taken to manage these employees until full DBS checks have been received.

CQC guidance on DBS checks

The CQC has issued interim guidance in response to temporary changes being made by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to DBS applications and processes.

Public Health England

Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance: healthcare professionals (updated 18 May 2020)

A number of targeted guidance documents can be accessed from this link, these relate to primary care, ambulance and community services, infection control and also address what to do when providers have a diagnosed case within their facility. Guidance for the management of staff and patients exposed to the virus was updated on 18 May 2020. The guidance covers staff exposures, staff return to work criteria and patient exposures.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): residential care, supported living and home care guidance

The guidance sets out how to maintain delivery of care in the event of an outbreak or widespread transmission of COVID-19 and what to do if care workers or individuals being cared for have symptoms of COVID-19. Read our briefing for a summary of the guidance for care homes.

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable (updated 18 May 2020)

Public Health England is strongly advising people with serious underlying health conditions (designated extremely vulnerable), to follow shielding measures rigorously in order to keep themselves safe and avoid the very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus. The guidance is equally relevant for providers and for friends and family caring for people with the conditions listed. Read our briefing which summarises the guidance.

Considerations for acute personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages (17 April 2020 – now updated)

This guidance aims to highlight the sessional use and reuse of PPE when there are severe shortages of supply. The considerations are to ensure that health and care workers are appropriately protected from COVID-19, where items of PPE are unavailable, and should be considered as temporary measures until the global supply chain is adequate to meet the UK’s needs.

Covid-19 personal protective equipment (PPE)

Updated guidance was issued on 27 April on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by health and social care workers, in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. It supersedes previous PPE guidance. This guidance relates solely to considerations of PPE, represents one section of infection prevention and control guidance for COVID-19 and should be used in conjunction with local policies.

The main changes are:

enhanced PPE recommendations for a wide range of health and social care contexts
inclusion of individual and organisational risk assessment at local level to inform PPE use
recommendation of single sessional (extended) use of some PPE items
re-usable PPE can be used. Advice on suitable decontamination arrangements should be obtained from the manufacturer, supplier or local infection control
guidance for when case status is unknown and SARS-CoV-2 is circulating at high levels
recommendation on patient use of facemasks
recommendation on the use of disposable fluid repellent coveralls as an alternative to long sleeved fluid repellent gowns for aerosol generating procedures or when working in higher risk acute areas. Staff need to be trained in the safe removal of coveralls [10 April 2020]

COVID-19: how to work safely in care homes (updated 27 April 2020)

This resource provides guidance on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for care workers working in care homes during sustained COVID-19 transmission in the UK. It explains how PPE guidance applies to the care home setting and is drawn from full infection prevention and control (IPC) and PPE guidance.

COVID-19: infection prevention and control guidance

The guidance is issued jointly by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), Public Health Wales (PHW), Public Health Agency (PHA) Northern Ireland, Health Protection Scotland (HPS), Public Health Scotland, Public Health England and NHS England as official guidance.

Updated 27 April 2020 to include the PHE statement regarding NERVTAG review and consensus on cardiopulmonary resuscitation as an aerosol generating procedure.

Guidance for care of the deceased with suspected or confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) (updated 15 May)

This guidance is to assist people who are required to manage the bodies of deceased persons during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

A descriptive review of data on disparities in the risk and outcomes from COVID-19. (Published June 2020)

Among people already diagnosed with COVID-19, people who were 80 or older were seventy times more likely to die than those under 40. Risk of dying among those diagnosed with COVID-19 was also higher in males than females; higher in those living in the more deprived areas than those living in the least deprived; and higher in those in Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups than in White ethnic groups.

Written statement to Parliament – Department for Transport Foreign and Commonwealth Office Public Health England and the Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP.

Easing coronavirus health measures at the UK border; exempting passengers from self-isolation requirements in certain circumstances on arrival in the UK. (Published 29 June).

Excess weight and COVID-19: insights from new evidence

Insights from new evidence on the relationship between excess weight and coronavirus (COVID-19).

News story – Public Health England to be replaced

Public Health England is to be replaced by a new agency that will specifically deal with protecting the country from pandemics, according to a report. Further details to be released in August.

Press release – 10,000 people now signed up to Covid-19 immunity study

A nationwide effort led by PHE to find out whether people who had COVID-19 can get infected again has now recruited 10,000 health workers from across the NHS.

Guidance – Covid-19 potentially infectious people
Guidance – COVID-19: long-term health effects

Information and guidance on persistent health problems reported following acute COVID-19 disease.

News story – Public Health England launches new Every Mind Matters campaign

Mental health campaign supports the well-being of children, young people and their parents.

Press release – Record numbers offered flu vaccine as those with flu and COVID-19 more likely to die

New Public Health England research suggests that people infected with both viruses between January and April were more at risk of severe illness and death.

News story – PHE statement on delayed reporting of COVID-19 cases

A technical issue, now resolved, resulted in cases between 25 September and 2 October not being included in the reported daily COVID-19 figures.

Guidance – UK SMI V 58: SARS-CoV-2 serology

UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations V 58: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) serology

News story – Weekly national flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports published

National influenza and COVID-19 report, monitoring coronavirus (COVID-19) activity, seasonal flu and other seasonal respiratory illnesses.

Guidance – COVID-19 and influenza point of care testing results: how to report

Notifications of COVID-19 and influenza point of care testing (POCT) results: legal duties for providers of POCT.

Press release – People with learning disabilities had higher death rate from COVID-19

England death rate up to 6 times higher from coronavirus during the first wave of the pandemic than the general population, Public Health England study finds.

Guidance – COVID-19: letters to clinically extremely vulnerable people

Reference-only versions of letters from the government to people who are clinically extremely vulnerable, including accessible formats.

Guidance – COVID-19: mitigation of risks in occupational settings with a focus on ethnic minority groups

Consensus statement from Public Health England, the Health and Safety Executive and the Faculty of Occupational Medicine.

Guidance – COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a

Provisional guidance subject to Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approval of vaccine supply.

Guidance – COVID-19: vaccination programme guidance for healthcare practitioners

Guidance for healthcare practitioners about the COVID-19 vaccination programme.

Guidance – COVID-19: vaccinator training recommendations

Guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination training to support healthcare workers involved in delivering the programme.

Guidance – Vitamin D supplementation during winter: PHE and NICE statement

Statement from Public Health England (PHE) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) on vitamin D supplementation during winter.

Guidance – COVID-19: vaccination programme guidance for healthcare practitioners

Guidance for healthcare practitioners about the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: why you are being asked to wait

Information about COVID-19 eligibility and vaccine supplies.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: what to expect after vaccination

Information for people who have had their first COVID-19 vaccination.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: a guide for social care staff

Information for frontline social care workers on COVID-19 vaccination.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: guide for healthcare workers

Information for frontline healthcare workers on COVID-19 vaccination.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults

Information for eligible adults on COVID-19 vaccination.

Guidance – COVID-19 vaccination: women of childbearing age, currently pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding

Information for all women of childbearing age, those currently pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding on coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination.

Press release – People with long-term health conditions urged to get flu vaccine before Christmas
News story – PHE investigating a novel strain of COVID-19

A new variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) has been identified across the South East of England.

News story – COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): information about the new virus variant

The new variant transmits more easily than the previous one but there is no evidence that it is more likely to cause severe disease or mortality.

Press release – Rapid evaluation confirms lateral flow devices effective in detecting new COVID-19 variant

Public Health England (PHE) has confirmed that lateral flow devices (LFDs) used in mass testing can detect the new COVID-19 variant.

Guidance – SARS-CoV-2 lateral flow antigen tests: evaluation of VUI-202012/01

PHE Porton Down has carried out a rapid assessment on whether 5 lateral flow devices can detect the new COVID-19 variant.

News story- Confirmed cases of COVID-19 variant from South Africa identified in UK

Two cases of a new SARS-CoV-2 variant, which originated in South Africa, have been identified in the UK.

Press release – JCVI issues advice on the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has issued its advice on the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

Guidance – National protocol for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1-S [recombinant])

This protocol is for the administration of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1-S [recombinant]) to individuals in accordance with the national COVID-19 vaccination programme.

Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Guidance on disposing of waste

How to dispose of your personal or business waste, including face coverings and personal protective equipment (PPE), during the coronavirus pandemic.

Press release – Sewage signals early warning of coronavirus outbreaks

Government-led programme is providing an early warning of coronavirus outbreaks by monitoring sewage and sharing data with NHS Test & Trace

Care Quality Commission

Coronavirus (COVID-19) information

The CQC has changed the way they will operate during the coronavirus outbreak. The changes relate to how they work day to day and affect how people communicate and/or send applications or other information. Providers should subscribe to bulletins and follow the CQC’s Twitter feed to receive the latest updates.

Routine inspections suspended in response to coronavirus outbreak

The CQC has written to all registered health and social care providers about how they are adapting their regulatory approach in response to the coronavirus outbreak. This includes the suspension of routine inspections from 16 March 2020.

There are no changes to the requirements to make notifications or the system used to make them. Providers should continue to notify the CQC of deaths and of events that preclude the carrying on of services ‘safely and properly’ (Regulation 18).

Supporting adult social care through COVID-19

The regulator has published answers to questions asked by adult social care providers during the coronavirus outbreak (updated 19 May 2020).

Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, Kate Terroni, discusses how the Care Quality Commission is working to support those working in adult social care to keep people using services and staff safe in these unprecedented times.

Death notifications

Notifications about deaths must be sent to CQC without delay in accordance with Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009: Regulation 16. Providers must use forms provided by CQC to make notifications under the regulation. The Death of a person using the service – notification form has been updated to include coronavirus (COVID-19) as a cause of death. The form also asks where the death occurred.

Covid-19 registrations (updated 17 April 2020)

This guidance deals with the interim registration process to help meet urgent capacity needs in social care and community services.

COVID-19: interim guidance on DBS and other recruitment checks (updated 19 May 2020)

The regulator has produced interim guidance on DBS and other recruitment checks, for providers recruiting staff and volunteers to health and social care services in response to coronavirus (updated 19 May).

Inappropriate use of sedative medicines to enforce social distancing guidelines (28 April 2020)

CQC has produced guidance in relation to managing vulnerable people who may not understand social distancing guidelines.

Emergency support framework: what to expect

The regulator has developed an emergency support framework that it intends to follow during the pandemic.

Understanding the impact of coronavirus on autistic people and people with a learning disability (updated 14 May)

The regulator is doing further work on the data care homes submit to CQC about the deaths of people in their care so that it can better understand the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on specific groups of people, including autistic people and people with a learning disability.

Care Quality Commission and Association of Directors of Adult Social Care Services joint statement on CQC’s Emergency support framework (published 20 May 2020)

Statement from CQC and ADASS on the CQC’S Emergency Support Framework and how they will work collaboratively.

Insight report into healthcare sector pressures

This Insight document intended to highlight COVID-19 related pressures on the sectors that CQC regulates.

CQC publishes data on deaths of people with a learning disability (published 2 June)

Supported by ONS, CQC has completed a targeted piece of analysis to better understand the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on people with a learning disability, some of whom may also be autistic, and how the number of deaths during this period compares to the number of deaths last year.

Questions for inspectors on infection prevention and control for NHS acute and mental health trusts (updated 22 June)

Guidance for NHS can be accessed here.

Guidance on closed cultures

CQC has released new guidance on closed cultures for their inspection teams, to support them to continue to improve how CQC identify and respond to services that might be at risk of developing closed cultures. They are also looking for appropriately experienced people to join an Expert Advisory Group with places to be allocated via an Expression of Interest process (23 June 2020). Click here for our briefing on closed cultures.

Registration: flu vaccination arrangements

Considerations for providers when arranging vaccination services

Return to inspections

CQC confirm a managed return to routine inspection of lower risk services in the autumn with Inspectors scheduling inspections of higher risk services to take place over the summer.

Inappropriate use of sedative medicines to enforce social distancing guidelines
1 September 2020 update: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Changes to Mental Health Act (MHA) interim methodology
Employment checks and training in the independent sector
Interim guidance – September 2020

What good looks like for digital records in adult social care

Nursing and Midwifery Council

Joint statement on expanding the nursing workforce in the Covid-19 outbreak

The NMC describes the actions that are being put into place to deal with this emergency situation. The NMC will continue to explore other options to expand the nursing workforce as this rapidly changing situation evolves.

Covid-19 Frequently Asked Questions

The NMC has put together this guide to address some common questions about their role as a regulator when it comes to coronavirus (Covid-19). The guidance will be updated as the situation progresses. Broadly it relates to the temporary register and students on placements.

Regulators of Health and Care Professions

Regulators’ joint statement to healthcare professionals

The regulators of health and care professionals in the UK have taken the unusual step of issuing a joint statement in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The regulators’ statement is intended to reassure those providing healthcare that the context of their actions will be taken into account should concerns be raised about their care as they tackle the crisis. For further details, see our briefing by Gareth Gibson and Simon Gomersall.

NHS Employers

Guidance regarding staff welfare

Click here for guidance on staff wellbeing and support and employers’ duty of care. The guidance also addresses the steps to be communicated to staff to ensure infection control procedures are followed and guidance on use of personal protective equipment and specific considerations for staff with underlying health conditions. Should you have any questions in relation to this guidance please contact our specialist employment team.

Click here for other employment briefings from our team.

NHS England

Advance care planning and guidance template

Legal guidance for mental health, learning disability and autism, and specialised commissioning services supporting people of all ages during the coronavirus pandemic (updated 19 May 2020)

This guidance concerns the impact of COVID-19 on the use of the Mental Health Act and supporting systems to safeguard the legal rights of people receiving mental health, learning disabilities and specialised commissioned mental health services.

Supporting patients of all ages who are unwell with coronavirus (COVID-19) in mental health, learning disability, autism, dementia and specialist inpatient facilities (updated to reflect changes in the case definition for Covid-19 from 18 May 2020)

This guidance has been assessed to identify potential equality impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with mental health problems or a learning disability and/or autism.

Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism COVID-19 cell bulletin

This bulletin provides those working in organisations across health, care and support systems with a round-up of the new guidance, communication activities and information coming out of the NHS England and Improvement Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism COVID-19 cell. It is recommended for staff members in social care, the voluntary and independent sectors and the NHS.

Addressing impact of COVID-19 on BAME staff in the NHS

This guidance facilitates an understanding of which groups are most at risk, so concerted action can be taken to protect them. Key areas of focus for NHS England and NHS Improvement are set out.

NHS England and NHS Confederation launch expert research centre on health inequalities

The creation of a new centre to investigate the impact of race and ethnicity on people’s health.

Blog – NHS England and NHS Improvement

We rightly challenge all types of discrimination that assign more importance to physical health than mental health.

The NHS Business Services Authority

New life assurance scheme

A new life assurance scheme has been introduced for eligible frontline health and social care workers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Resuscitation Council

Guidance for the resuscitation of COVID-19 patients in hospital

Guidance regarding CPR. Providers are advised to identify as early as possible any patients with a COVID-19 like illness, who are at risk of acute deterioration or cardiac arrest and to take appropriate steps to prevent cardiac arrest and avoid unprotected CPR.

Health and Safety Executive

RIDDOR reporting of Covid-10.

This guidance deals with reporting requirements under RIDDOR.

Press release – HSE urges businesses to become COVID-secure
Management information – Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease reports

Made by employers to HSE and Local Authorities since 10 April 2020

Guidance – Health and safety spot checks and inspections during coronavirus (COVID-19)

British Geriatric Society

COVID-19: Managing the COVID-19 pandemic in care homes

This guidance has been developed to help care home staff and NHS staff who work with residents of care homes and their families to support them through the pandemic. It covers practical matters such as isolating residents suspected of having the virus and how to approach end of life care planning.

Managing delirium in confirmed and suspected cases of COVID-19

Consensus advice outlining recommendations for management of delirium; good general care including prevention, early detection, and non-pharmacological management should be provided as systems allow. Because of the ease of transmission of COVID-19, the risk of harm to others may exceed risk of harm to the individual and this may necessitate earlier use of pharmacological treatment.

CQC, CPA, BMA and RCGP

Joint Statement on advance care planning

The joint statement emphasises the importance of having an advanced care plan in place, especially for older people, those who are frail or have other serious conditions. This is clear that it is unacceptable for advance care plans, with or without DNAR form completion to be applied to groups of people of any description.

Please contact any member of our team for questions or advice.

Department of Health and Social Care, Care Quality Commission, Public Health England, and NHS England

Coronavirus (COVID-19): admission and care of people in care homes

Guidance regarding how to protect care home residents and staff during the coronavirus outbreak. It deals with how to admit residents from hospital and how to care for them safely. This guidance is applicable to registered providers of accommodation for people who need personal or nursing care, including residential care and nursing homes for people with learning disabilities, mental health and/or other disabilities.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): support for care homes

This guidance sets out the support package to keep care homes safe during the coronavirus pandemic.(updated 19 May).

The Association of Directors of Public Health (UK)

Warning from the body representing public health directors about the pace of easing restrictions (published May 31)

The Parliamentary Health Service Ombudsman

The PHSO has indicated that it will not accept new health service complaints nor progress existing ones where this requires contact with the NHS. We will keep the situation under close and regular review.

The BDA

The BDA has reported clarification from NHS England about the way in which mixed practices will be able to obtain financial support. NHS England has confirmed that practices can seek Government supported related to the private aspect of practice income without disqualifying themselves from the NHSE support in respect of NHS income.

The BDA also report that a petition seeking support for directors of small limited companies, such as many dental practice owners, has been signed by more than 200,000 people.

The College of Podiatry

The College of Podiatry is publishing guidance for its members on practice during the Coronavirus crisis.

Royal College of Physicians in London

The Royal College of Physicians has published ethical guidance for frontline staff.

The Faculty of General Dental Practitioners

Guidance for the safe management of general dental practice (published 1 June)
Our briefing on the return to work for dental practices during Covid-19 (9 June)

Department for Transport

Guidance on face coverings on public transport

From 15 June, face coverings will be required while using public transport in England

News story – Travel ban implemented to protect public health following South Africa COVID-19 outbreak

New travel restrictions on passengers arriving in England from South Africa.

News story – Mandatory COVID-19 testing introduced to bolster border measures

International arrivals required to prove negative COVID-19 test result before departure for England.

Written statement to Parliament – International travel update, 11 January 2021

From 4am on 15 January 2021, pre-departure testing will be required for all inbound passengers to England.

ICO

Guidance for employers on workplace testing

Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government

Letter to all local authorities in England to update them on funding to support interventions for those placed in emergency accommodation, and support for EEA rough sleepers (30 June 2020)

Press release – Jenrick extends ban on evictions and notice periods

The ban on evictions extended for another 4 weeks and new 6 month notice periods to be in place until at least 31 March 2021.

Press release – 274 councils set to receive housing support for vulnerable people

The funding will provide interim accommodation and support as part of the government’s commitment to end rough sleeping.

Guidance – Public health funerals: good practice guidance

Non-statutory guidance for local authorities in England and Wales on public health funerals.

Guidance – Local Covid-19 outbreaks: lessons learnt and good practice

The report of Dame Mary Ney’s rapid stocktake of lessons learnt from the Leicester City/Leicestershire experience of responding to a local surge in COVID-19 cases.

Guidance – COVID-19: provision of night shelters

Operating principles for commissioners and providers of night shelters for people experiencing rough sleeping.

Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy

Press release – Over £100 million cash boost to manufacture millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccine

New state-of-the-art centre to scale up COVID-19 vaccine and gene therapy manufacturing gets £100 million investment.

Press release – UK government secures new Covid-19 vaccines and backs global clinical trial

UK citizens will receive early access to 90 million doses of 2 COVID-19 vaccine candidates should they prove safe and effective.

Press release – Public encouraged to register for COVID-19 vaccine trials as 100,000 already sign-up

Over 100,000 people have volunteered to take part in COVID-19 vaccine trials, helping to speed up efforts to discover a safe and effective vaccine.

Press release – 10,000 UK volunteers to take part in new COVID-19 vaccine trials

Ten thousand UK volunteers will be invited to join a leading phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trial.

Press release – Ethnic minority communities and the elderly called upon to bolster the fight against coronavirus

Researchers are calling on more people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds and the over 65s to volunteer for clinical studies through the NHS Vaccine Registry.

Press release – Expert partnership to explore and establish Human Challenge studies of COVID-19 in the UK

£33.6 million government investment will back the studies in partnership with Imperial College London, hVIVO and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.

Press release – Expert partnership to explore and establish Human Challenge studies of COVID-19 in the UK

£33.6 million government investment will back the studies in partnership with Imperial College London, hVIVO and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.

Government response – UK government response to Pfizer/BioNTech’s publication of efficacy data of their COVID-19 vaccine

Pfizer/BioNTech published positive efficacy results from Phase 3 studies of their potential COVID-19 vaccine.

Press release – Janssen to begin COVID-19 vaccine trials in the UK

Pharmaceutical company to begin trials of UK vaccine from 16 November.

Government response – UK government’s response to Moderna’s publication of efficacy data for its COVID-19 vaccine

Biotech company Moderna has published positive efficacy results from its Phase 3 studies of its potential COVID-19 vaccine.

Press release – Government secures 5 million doses of Moderna vaccine

Vaccine could be delivered to the UK from Spring 2021.

Government response – Response to media coverage of the UK government’s procurement of the Moderna vaccine

The government, through the work of the Vaccine Taskforce, has put the UK in an extremely strong position if and when a vaccine meets robust standards of safety and effectiveness

Report – Government has published a report highlighting the work and achievements of its Vaccines Taskforce (VTF).

Ministry of Justice

Press release – Video-witnessed wills to be made legal during coronavirus pandemic

The Government is to legalise the remote witnessing of wills – making it easier for people to record their final wishes during the coronavirus pandemic. See also our briefing on this topic.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

NICE publishes new COVID-19 rapid guideline on arranging planned care in hospitals and diagnostic services

NICE has published a guideline on the arrangements the NHS should put in place for patients needing elective surgery and other planned treatments and procedures (including diagnostics and imaging) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Government Equalities Office, Race Disparity Unit

Correspondence – COVID-19 health disparity review: letter to stakeholders

Minister for Equalities Kemi Badenoch’s letter to stakeholder engagement participants to the Public Health England Review, to thank them for their work and invite them to further engage with government.

Government Equalities Office

Oral statement to Parliament – Quarterly report on progress to address COVID-19 health inequalities

The Minister for Equalities’ Oral Statement to the House, on the first quarterly report to the Prime Minister and Health Secretary on progress to understand and tackle COVID-19 disparities experienced by individuals from an ethnic minority background.

Department for Digital Culture Media and Sport

Press release – Prime Minister announces stronger enforcement measures as easements resume

The Government has announced a series of tough new enforcement measures targeting the most serious breaches of social distancing restrictions.

Government Digital Service

Guidance – Get coronavirus support as a clinically extremely vulnerable person: privacy notice

Privacy notice for the service providing coronavirus support to clinically extremely vulnerable people.

NHSx

Care homes to benefit from tech to help residents keep in touch with loved ones

The Charity Commission

Press release – Watchdog warns charities and the public to protect themselves against fraudsters amid pandemic

The Charity Commission is warning trustees and donors to strengthen defences as it fears the pandemic has created environments that are enabling charity fraud.

UK Space Agency

Press release – Space company takes to the skies alongside the NHS

The UK Space Agency has today backed a healthcare drone start-up founded by NHS staff, to help in the response to COVID-19.

Environment Agency

Guidance – Incinerating specified healthcare wastes at a municipal waste incinerator: RPS C23

When you can incinerate coronavirus (COVID-19) infectious waste at a municipal waste incinerator without varying your permit.

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency

News story – Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine: MHRA statement

The safety of the public will always come first.

News story – Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine: MHRA statement confirming letter received

The safety of the public will always come first.

Press release – UK medicines regulator gives approval for first UK COVID-19 vaccine

The first COVID-19 vaccine for the UK, developed by Pfizer/BioNTech, has today been given approval for use following a thorough review carried out by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Decision – Regulatory approval of Pfizer / BioNTech vaccine for COVID-19.

Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

News story – June Raine: How we backed a COVID-19 vaccine before rest of the West

MHRA Chief Executive Dr June Raine explains the process behind the Agency’s approval of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine

Press release – Confirmation of guidance to vaccination centres on managing allergic reactions following COVID-19 vaccination with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine

Statement by Dr June Raine, Chief Executive of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency on the guidance to vaccination centres on managing allergic reactions following COVID-19 vaccination with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine

Press release – HMG suspends import tariffs on Covid-19 products to fight virus

Tariffs suspended on a wide range of goods in the fight against Covid-19 including face masks, gloves and other protective equipment.

News story – Independent batch release testing of COVID-19 (coronavirus) vaccines by the NIBSC

The National Institute for Biological Standards and Control will carry out independent testing in the UK for any potential

Press release – Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine approved

The new vaccine has been approved after meeting the required safety, quality and effectiveness standards.

Decision – Regulatory approval of Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for COVID-19

Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

News story – Access Consortium regulators pledge support to tackle COVID-19

The Access Consortium regulatory authorities have pledged our collective support in countering the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Press release – Moderna vaccine becomes third COVID-19 vaccine approved by UK regulator

The vaccine has been approved after meeting the required safety, quality and effectiveness standards.

News story – Independent batch release testing of COVID-19 (coronavirus) vaccines by the NIBSC

The National Institute for Biological Standards and Control will carry out independent testing in the UK for any potential COVID-19 vaccines.

Decision – Regulatory approval of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna

Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna

HM Treasury

News story – Chancellor extends furlough and loan schemes

The furlough scheme has been extended until the end of April 2021 with the government continuing to contribute 80% towards wages – giving businesses and employees across the UK certainty into the New Year, the Chancellor announced today.

Department for Education

Press release – Secondary schools and colleges to get weekly coronavirus testing

Lateral flow tests to be deployed to all secondary schools and colleges to help detect asymptomatic cases and break chains of transmission from January

Social Care Institute for Excellence

Guidance – Mental Capacity Act – Best interests decisions

Best interests decisions: A COVID-19 quick guide

Covid-19 – reference for health and social care providers and professionals

The Home Office

Department of Health and Social Care

Cabinet Office

The Prime Minister’s office

Disclosure and Barring Service

Public Health England

Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Care Quality Commission

Nursing and Midwifery Council

Regulators of Health and Care Professions

NHS Employers

NHS England

The NHS Business Services Authority

Resuscitation Council

Health and Safety Executive

British Geriatric Society

CQC, CPA, BMA and RCGP

Department of Health and Social Care, Care Quality Commission, Public Health England, and NHS England

The Association of Directors of Public Health (UK)

The Parliamentary Health Service Ombudsman

The BDA

The College of Podiatry

Royal College of Physicians in London

The Faculty of General Dental Practitioners

Department for Transport

ICO

Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government

Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy

Ministry of Justice

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

Government Equalities Office, Race Disparity Unit

Government Equalities Office

Department for Digital Culture Media and Sport

Government Digital Service

NHSx

The Charity Commission

UK Space Agency

Environment Agency

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency

HM Treasury

Department for Education

Social Care Institute for Excellence

Contacts