With the ongoing development and spread of Covid-19 (also called the coronavirus), SIGN has implemented steps to protect clients and staff, and others with whom they come in contact.
Executive Director Andrew Sedley has been working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Public Health and the Ministry of Education to protect SIGN staff and those who access SIGN services from the spread of Covid-19.
With the closing of all schools in Saskatchewan on March 20, SIGN's Before and After School programs will be suspended until classes resume. Payments by parents for the months of April, May and June will be returned along with pro-rated reimbursement for the month of March.
Staff members have been instructed to stay home if they become ill, to prevent the spread of the virus.
If those who use SIGN services are ill, or feel they may have illness coming on, they will be asked not to come to SIGN offices on West Broadway or North Street, or have staff come to their home. Their appointments will be rescheduled at a time when the illness passes or it is determined they do not have the virus.
In addition, SIGN encourages everyone to following the following good practises:
- Practice social distancing, staying two arms lengths away from individuals when possible;
- Wash hands frequently, for at least 20 seconds;
- Don’t touch surfaces and then your mouth, eyes and nose;
- Use tissues when you cough or sneeze and dispose of them immediately. Use the inside of your elbow if a tissue is unavailable;
- Call the HealthLine 811 if you feel ill and have symptoms;
- Ensure that work areas are cleaned using proper disinfectants regularly. Pay special attention to cleaning tables, door knobs, keyboard trays, hard surfaces, railings, etc.;
- Have hand sanitizers available at every work stations.
SIGN facilities have implemented increased cleaning procedures.
SIGN staff who provide home visits are calling families prior to doing home visit. If anyone in the family is experiencing illness or has travelled internationally, including to the United States in the past 14 days, appointments are being rescheduled. If home visits are made, appropriate social distancing (two arms lengths away) from others is being practised.
Staff at the Early Learning Centre (daycare), Before and After School programs and Early Years Family Resource Centre are continuing to receive direction from the Ministry of Education. They are paying particilar attention to properly sanitize toys, equipment and hard surfaces to stop the spread of any illness. If a child arrives ill, the child may not attend until they are feeling better. Parents are being advised of these procedures
SIGN entrances display a poster to let clients and parents know that if they are sick or their child is sick, they should not enter the buildings.
"We all have a role to play to ensure the good health of staff, our clients and our community," Sedley stated.
Up-to-date information about Covid-19 is available at .
