The health and wellbeing of patients and staff continues to be our top priority during the pandemic.
As of today (Monday 15 June 2020), in line with Government recommendations, we’re asking visitors and patients visiting our hospital sites for planned and outpatient care to wear a face covering at all times to help reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus.
Face coverings are different to face masks. It can be as simple as a scarf or bandana that ties behind the head but in order for it to be effective it should cover the mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably. Face coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice are also acceptable, providing they are not loose and cover the mouth and nose. Advice on how to wear and make a face covering can be found on the government website.
We are asking that you plan in advance and bring a face covering with you whenever possible, but if you do not have one available when you visit out hospitals, please speak to a member of staff upon arrival at the main entrance and we will provide you with one.
All visitors will be expected to comply with existing social distancing and hand hygiene measures in addition to the face coverings whilst in our hospitals.
Wearing a face covering may be difficult for some people due to physical or mental health conditions. In these instances, other measures will be considered on a case by case basis, for example, timed appointments and being seen immediately on arrival. Face coverings should not be used by children under the age of 3 or those who may find it difficult to manage them correctly.
Unless you are in need or urgent emergency medical care, please do not visit our hospitals if you have symptoms of COVID-19 (cough, and/or high temperature, and/or loss of, or change in, your normal sense of smell or taste – anosmia). If you are displaying symptoms you and your household must isolate at home. For more information visit NHS 111 online.