Tenth resident dies at Skye care home with coronavirus

An outbreak of coronavirus at a care home on Skye has claimed its tenth life.

"Serious and significant" concerns have been raised about the quality of care at Home Farm care home in Portree, which has now reported its 10th death from coronavirus. PIC: Contributed.

A total of 30 residents and 29 staff at the home have now tested positive for Covid-19.

In response to the crisis, the Scottish Government has announced it will fast -track emergency laws which will allow it to step in and take over the running of failing care homes.

The new laws will allow Scottish ministers to apply for an emergency order to temporarily intervene and manage services.

Meanwhile, NHS Highland has stepped in to play a greater role in running of the home on Skye after the Care Inspectorate raised concerns.

A spokesman for HC-One, the home's operator, said: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with all families who have lost a loved one from coronavirus and we are doing our utmost to support them during this difficult time."

On Thursday, the Care Inspectorate lodged a court bid to cancel HC-One's registration, which could prevent it from running the facility.

The regulator said it had "serious and significant concerns" about the quality of care in the home following an unannounced inspection this week.

HC-One said on Friday: "We have a comprehensive coronavirus contingency plan in place, which was created by our clinical director and reflects the latest Government guidance.

"We are working closely with our local health and care partners, and we have all the medical equipment, PPE and supplies we need to protect residents and colleagues alike.

"We are proud of our colleagues and how they have risen to the challenge of the coronavirus outbreak by showing huge dedication and commitment to our residents.

"We are providing round-the-clock support for all our teams, and we are also grateful to relatives for their ongoing support and understanding."

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