Long-awaited visits to relatives in Devon's care homes – without protective screens - could be possible this Christmas, according to the county council.

Eight residential homes in the county have taken part in a national pilot scheme in which one family member or friend per resident was given a rapid Covid-19 test.

If they got the all-clear they were allowed to visit their relative, with PPE but without a screen.

Cllr Andrew Leadbetter, cabinet member for adult social care and health services, told the full council meeting on Thursday, December 3: "Feedback from the homes has been mainly positive, reporting that the process is simple to follow, and meaningful contact whilst wearing full PPE is appreciated.

"Relatives and residents have been very emotional, with the pilot bringing hope and a glimpse of the new normal."

When will all Devon's care homes have this in place?

The pilot is being carried out and evaluated by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

The DHSC is leading a phased rolling-out of the visitor testing to care homes in the first two weeks of this month, aimed at ensuring that all homes have it in place in time for Christmas.

Cllr Leadbetter said that of the first 30 visitors who had been tested during the Devon pilot, one visitor tested positive and went home to isolate, while awaiting the results of a further test. Just one visitor refused testing because they didn't feel comfortable.

Welcoming the report, the leader of the Labour group, Cllr Rob Hannaford, said: "Our local care homes have worked so hard to try and keep their residents and staff safe through the pandemic, and have shown huge dedication and compassion in the face of the crisis.

"I welcome the fact that we were chosen as a pilot area, and really hope that we can learn from the exercise looking to the future, allowing loved ones better access, so that they can spend precious time together, and when the time comes to say their goodbyes in a timely and proper manner.

"The next massive challenge will be to ensure the full expansion of the vaccination programme to each and every care home that we have in Devon to support this vital part of our society."