Changes to mask wearing in our hospitals

27 June 2022 - The requirement to wear a face mask in all areas of our hospitals has ended.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS POLICY WAS UPDATED ON 8 JULY 2022. MASKS ARE NOW REQUIRED IN ALL CLINICAL AREAS, EXCEPT CHILDREN’S SERVICES.

On Monday, 27 June 2022, the requirement for patients, visitors and staff to wear a face mask in all areas of our hospitals ended. This follows a change in national guidance, and widespread vaccine take-up and immunity.

Face masks are now only required in designated areas, and these areas will be clearly marked with signage. We also expect many patients and visitors to choose to wear a mask throughout their stay or visit, and we fully support those whose personal preference is to do so.

We will also continue to ask patients to wear a mask in the following situations:

Visitors should continue to wear a face mask when:

Face masks are not currently required in any other areas of our hospitals. However, as stated above, patients and visitors (and staff) may choose to wear a mask at other and/or all times if they wish, and we fully support those whose personal preference is to do so.

We also continue to encourage all patients and visitors to wash their hands before and after visiting. Hand-washing stations and sanitisers are available throughout the hospital.