COTA NT Policy regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19)

17 Mar 2020

COTA NT Policy Coronavirus

Background

COTA NT acknowledges the real threat of the coronavirus, COVID-19 and of our responsibility as an employer and community citizen to contribute all we can to stopping the spread and minimising risk to staff, volunteers and the community.

We are mindful that older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.

We are monitoring developments and the advice of federal and state health officials.  We will do all we can to cooperate with the best advice and best practice for the benefit of the older people we serve, the staff and volunteers who make up the COTA NT team and the broader community.

COTA NT recognises the risks to all people, especially people who are older, of prolonged isolation.

Action Statement

• COTA NT have postponed all activities at Spillett House at least until 30^th April 2020, after which time it will be reviewed.
• COTA NT have postponed all large events until after September, the 6-month window, i.e. Seniors Expo.
• COTA NT will shift meetings where practicable to electronic, telephone or video formats.
• Where meetings are to proceed, COTA NT will adopt protocols regarding safe spacing for attendees.
• Require that people (staff, volunteers or visitors) do not attend COTA NT meetings or premises if they are unwell with cough or fever or other respiratory systems or if they have not isolated themselves for at least 14 days following overseas travel.
• Require any staff member or volunteer who is unwell with cough or fever or other respiratory symptoms to be responsible and self-isolate.
• Recognise the value of social contact and the risks associated with prolonged isolation and therefore communicate with older people through letters, electronic options, media and telephone calls where possible to take leave until fully recovered.
• Support staff who elect not to undertake domestic travel in commercial airlines.
• Continue to deliver programs using creative communication approaches and to visit people in small groups or on a one-on-one basis.
• Encourage all staff and volunteers and visitors to follow good hand and respiratory hygiene.
• All equipment that has been used for activities (and if COTA NT re-starts these activities used again) will be under strict cleaning guidelines.

 Messaging for Older People

•  COTA NT will ensure that our messaging is consistent with best advice provided by the Chief Medical Officer – NT and Federal.
• There is also no need to stockpile items.
• Do NOT visit hospitals or aged care facilities, if you are unwell.

SUE SHEARER

CEO – COTA NT

This policy is also available to download, click here – COTA NT Policy Coronavirus