Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs hospitals in Andover, Basingstoke and Winchester, has today (11 February 2022) confirmed that visiting restrictions will remain in place at its sites.
Julie Dawes, chief nurse at HHFT, said: “Keeping our patients and staff safe is our top priority. As we continue to see a high number of COVID-19 cases, we have taken the decision to continue to limit visiting across our three hospitals.
“Visiting is limited to compassionate circumstances including patients receiving palliative and end of life care, and should be agreed in advance with the ward matron. Separate guidelines are in place when visiting our children and maternity departments, with one support partner/ parent permitted to visit per patient.
“We understand how important it is for families and friends to stay connected, and there are several ways in which loved ones can keep in touch with our patients should visiting not be possible during this time, including virtual visiting and our patient messaging service.
“Any visitors who are coming on site will be required to undertake a lateral flow test prior to visiting our hospitals and are advised that they will be required to wear a surgical mask at all times. It is essential social distancing rules are also followed.
“This guidance will remain under regular review and we will share updates with the local community when available."
