Water testing carried out by our housing team has found traces of Legionella bacteria in the water supply used in some seniors housing schemes.
As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of residents, we have introduced regular sample testing of water from taps and showers in communal areas in seniors housing schemes.
We contract HSL Compliance to visit our schemes each week to maintain safe water systems and, where they find a problem, take action to remedy the issue.
The introduction of regular sampling is to monitor the quality of the water supply and, if necessary, take preventative measures to reduce the risk of Legionella.
Recent sampling in 22 of our seniors housing schemes and one extra care scheme, unfortunately found a small number of traces of legionella bacteria in communal outlets in 13 schemes.
A positive trace does not always mean there is a health risk, and we have had no reported cases of infection. However, we treat this seriously and have taken immediate action to treat the issue.
We have taken the affected outlets out of use and are following the recommended steps to clear traces of Legionella bacteria from all the outlets.
We have had no reported cases of Legionella infection from any of the schemes affected and there is no risk to the water supply in any of the residents’ self-contained kitchens or bathrooms.
Residents can continue to use their own showers, baths, wash hand basins and sinks as normal.
Councillor Gill Williams, Cabinet member for Housing and New Homes, said: “Our number one priority is the health and safety of our residents, which is why we’ve introduced regular sampling of the water supply in the communal areas of our seniors schemes and our extra care scheme.
“We are sorry for the concern this will have caused and have taken immediate steps to deal with the issues raised by the testing. This swift action is why it is so important to carry out regular testing.
“We have contacted all residents in the schemes affected and will remain in regular communication with them as we remedy the issue.”
Legionella bacteria are common in natural sources of water.
Our repairs handbook for tenants includes advice on taking the following precautions in homes to reduce the risk of:
