Kisharon has stopped family visits indoors for those it supports following London’s new Tier 2 Covid status, which took effect from Saturday.

Outdoor visits can still go ahead, weather permitting. However, individuals living alone and without overnight support may be able to form a support bubble with one other household.

The Tier 2 move, introduced as cases across London rise, was anticipated, and Hadassa Kessler, Director of Operations and Development, said: “This has been really upsetting for people and their families, and last minute conversations and planning have been happening ahead of the changes.”

Parents hoping to visit over Shabbat were contacted by supported living managers and alerted to the new arrangements put in place to keep people safe.

Hadassa said: “I know this will be disappointing, and we will do our best to ensure that you have as much opportunity for contact as possible throughout this time.

“Kisharon has made provisions to ensure there is plenty of Shabbos food available, and people will be able to attend shul if they like, within government guidelines.”

No other Kisharon service is impacted by the government announcement, but in a statement issued shortly afterwards, Chief Executive Richard Franklin urged stringent adherence to existing guidelines.

Calling for those with underlying health conditions, or aged 70 or above to take extra care, he said: “I am conscious there may be a raised level of concern among people we support, staff and their respective families. I am confident however  – particularly given how we pulled together during the March lockdown and in the subsequent period – that we are well equipped to face challenges.”