Southern Trust relaxes hospital visiting restrictions

THE Southern Trust has relaxed hospital visiting restrictions this week.

In a statement, the Trust said, “In recognition of the needs of patients and their loved ones, the Southern Trust will endeavour to facilitate one visitor per patient for one hour, once a week, with effect from Monday, February 7.

“The new arrangements are that one of two nominated individuals from up to two households can visit, where this can be accommodated within COVID secure environments. Visiting at end of life and in exceptional circumstances will continue to be supported following risk assessment while paediatric visiting remains unchanged, ensuring this is risk assessed and in a COVID-19 secure way. Arrangements for maternity will be one visit per day.

“To protect patients, visitors and staff – visiting will be strictly by appointment only and must be planned in advance. Arrangements will be made with each patient by Trust staff.”