Face covering guidance for patients and the public

The health and wellbeing of patients and staff remains the top priority for the NHS with infection prevention and control (IPC) key to how we are handling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in our services.

Evidence has shown that people infected with COVID-19 can have very mild or no respiratory symptoms (asymptomatic) and can transmit the virus to others without knowing, so it is important that we take immediate steps to stop the spread of coronavirus in our buildings.

Following an extensive evidence review, the national Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) has made recommendations on the use of face coverings by visitors.

If you are visiting one of our sites for an appointment you are asked to wear a face covering for the duration of your time in our building to further reduce risk. This is for your safety and the safety of other patients and staff.

Face coverings can be cloth and/or homemade, and advice on how to wear and make one can be found on the government website www.gov.uk/coronavirus. Face coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice are also acceptable, providing they are not loose and cover the mouth and nose.

If a patient or visitor does not have a face covering when they come to one of our sites, a face mask will be provided on arrival. 

Patient information and posters will be available at all entrances to advise of the requirement for a face covering to be worn.

We understand that it may be difficult for some people to wear a face covering and in these circumstances other measures will be considered on a case by case basis. Please contact your local team if you have concerns and would like to discuss alternative arrangements.