Please note that we have updated our visiting guidance as of 5th June 2020; see below for the latest guidance.
In response to COVID-19, in March we took the decision, along with other NHS organisations, to close our services to visitors (with exceptions for those service users on end of life pathways of care, and doing our best to consider any other requests on an individual basis).
On the 5th June the Government issued further guidance, “Visiting healthcare inpatient settings during the COVID-19 pandemic (Version 1)”. Although the preference is still for contact with families/partners/carers to be done using iPads or telephones on the ward wherever possible to minimise the risk of spreading infection, this updated guidance has enabled us to explore more options for face-to-face contact for patients. All visits must still adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Wards will manage their own visiting arrangements based on what spaces and options they have available to them, and we advise people to contact the relevant ward to discuss possible visiting arrangements. Visitors will be required to wear a face covering if visiting any of our hospital sites, and will be provided with face masks if entering a ward.
Your support is appreciated. We apologise for any inconvenience, however the safety and wellbeing of our patients is our priority.
The most up-to-date public guidance regarding COVID-19 is always online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.