We are all concerned about COVID-19 and with cases confirmed in New Zealand and travel restrictions, we are taking the possibility of an outbreak very seriously.
Choices NZ is part of the IHC Group. Within the IHC Group we provide services to, and have contact with, a large number of people including people we support, tenants, staff and families.
I’m sure you will have all heard the advice about making sure you have everything you need at home.
I want you to know that at IHC and Choices NZ we have pulled together our senior managers and clinical, risk and safety advisors to make sure we are well prepared. We have plans in place if people need to be isolated while receiving ongoing support. We may see some programmes on hold – for example employment training or opportunities and activities may be suspended.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advice from health authorities closely and are prepared to move quickly if we need to.
You can help. If you are unwell please get in touch with the Ministry of Health by calling the Healthline 0800 358 5453 for information and advice.
If you have been overseas you need to self-isolate for 14 days.
The Ministry of Health has good information on its website – so you might like to keep checking in here too. It also lists the affected countries I mentioned above.
If you have any concerns please contact your nearest Choices NZ office or staff.
Our local managers will be happy to speak to with you. In the meantime, we are concentrating on business as usual in providing support and services to individuals while making sure we are preparing for every eventuality.
Ralph Jones
IHC Group Chief Executive