Ahead of the Easter bank holiday, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs hospitals in Andover, Basingstoke, and Winchester, is asking for the support of the local community
Alex Whitfield, chief executive at Hampshire Hospitals, said: “We’re continuing to see really significant levels of demand across our sites and we are expecting this to continue heading into the Easter bank holiday.
“Our teams are working exceptionally hard to care for everyone coming through the front doors of our hospitals and there are a number of ways in which the local community can support us, including using the right service to get the care and advice you need. Contacting NHS 111 should be the first step for anyone with a non-urgent medical requirement. As ever, please call 999 in a serious medical or life-threatening emergency.
“We are asking the public to help by collecting loved ones who are ready to leave hospital as soon as possible, so that we can begin to care for someone seriously unwell who needs a hospital bed.
“With COVID-19 cases remaining high in our hospitals and in the community, please continue to consider the ways in which you can protect yourself and others whilst enjoying the long weekend, including avoiding large crowds, wearing a mask in busy settings and washing your hands regularly. Please only attend one of our sites for a booked appointment or scheduled visit if you do not have symptoms of COVID-19.
“However you choose to enjoy the bank holiday weekend, please do so safely. Thank you, as ever, for your patience and support.”
Whilst visiting is currently limited to exceptional or compassionate circumstances only, there are a number of ways in which to stay in touch with loved ones in hospital this Easter, including through virtual visiting. For more information, please click here.
