Visiting is welcomed and encouraged in a very careful and managed way to meet patient need while maintaining a safe environment for all.
Every effort shall be made to facilitate visiting that meets patients’ wishes. This means:
Anyone with symptoms of respiratory infection (COVID, flu) or feeling unwell should not visit
All visitors to inpatient or outpatient areas must wear a face mask (see exemptions below) – we recommend that visitors wear a fluid repellent surgical face mask (FRSM) and these are provided at all main entrances. Visitors may elect to wear their own face covering but are/will be advised that the masks provided by the Trust offer better protection to them and others
As a general principle, the Trust is encouraging visitors to maintain one metre distance between people and also ensure they practice good hand hygiene
Visiting guidance may change depending on local prevalence and infection control guidance/requirements eg. an outbreak in an area
Visiting rules can be flexed on compassionate grounds for example, for carers of adult patients or visiting at end of life (see below). This needs to be agreed with the nurse in charge.