Sheffield Hospitals BAN visitors over Covid-19 fears – except under two circumstances

From today, visiting will only be allowed in Sheffield hospitals ‘in exceptional circumstances’.

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Birth and end of life partners are allowed to visit patients.

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The new rules apply to the Northern General Hospital, Hallamshire Hospital, Weston Park Hospital, Jessop Wing and Charles Clifford Dental Hospital as well as community health buildings including the Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre, run by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

The Trust said the restrictions are in response to the rising infection rate in Sheffield.

It said: “It is with regret that due to increasing cases of Covid-19 in the community we have taken the difficult decision to once again restrict the number of people coming into our hospitals to try and limit transmission of the virus to patients and our staff.

“From Monday, October 19, visiting is not allowed unless in exceptional circumstances such as end of life or birth partners. For all other exceptional circumstances please discuss this with the nurse in charge of the ward over the phone ahead of your visit.

“We do appreciate how hard this is to not see your loved ones in person but their safety has to be the priority.

“Anyone who wishes to communicate with their relative via an alternative method, such as mobile phone, face time or Skype is welcome to do so and we have free internet access across the Trust for patients to use.

“We have also provided phones and iPads on all wards for patients to use if they don’t have their own device. We have ensured all our wards have iPads and other devices to help you keep in touch.”

The Trust added: “Thank you for helping to protect our patients and staff by making sure you stick to the rule of six, wash your hands regularly, keep your distance from others, wear a face covering and get a test as soon as you have any symptoms associated with Covid-19 and self isolate if you are asked to do so.

“All of these things will help reduce the spread of the virus and help us deliver the care your loved ones need.”

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