Western Trust suspends visiting at all sites and hospitals as COVID-19 surge moves to Alert level 5

The suspension will take effect from midnight tonight.

The health authority made the decision after the four UK Chief Medical Officers advised we are now moving to Alert level 5, which requires the strictest of social distancing given the threat that health and social care services could become overwhelmed.

"While we recognise that restriction to visiting is a very emotive and difficult issue, often causing distress for families, patients and residents, it is essential that these updated visiting restrictions are effectively applied to help bring the transmission of COVID-19 under control.

"There will again be certain exceptional circumstances which have been highlighted and which will continue to apply," a spokesperson said.

These include end-of-life visiting, the accompaniment of children, birth partners and the accompaniment of patients who cannot communicate or of patients who require mental health support.

"If you are permitted to visit Hospital or a Care Facility under any of the special circumstances above you MUST wear a face covering, thoroughly wash your hands or use sanitiser when entering and exiting that facility.

"Please do not visit if you are feeling unwell, especially if you have a high temperature or new persistent cough or have a sudden loss of taste or smell," the Trust appealed.

Children are not permitted to visit at present.

The Trust said it understood this is a very difficult time for the public.

"We ask you to work with us and appeal to patients and visitors to respect our staff and the guidance they give you at all times. The Trust operates a ‘Zero Tolerance’ policy and we will not accept any form of abuse towards our staff.

"You can also continue to arrange a ‘virtual visit’ with your relative or friend on a smartphone or tablet. Our hospitals have access to free Wi-Fi and our staff can help set this up. Please be patient. Our staff will have to prioritise clinical work and patient care," it said.

For further information on visiting any Western Trust hospital or Facility – Click Here