Visiting at all sites run by University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) has been suspended for at least two weeks.
The decision has been taken in agreement with other local hospitals as cases of COVID-19 are rising in hospitals and in the community.
Sue Smith, OBE, Executive Chief Nurse and Deputy Chief Executive of UHMBT, said: “We know that visiting is extremely important for the recovery of patients, but we have to keep our patients and colleagues’ safety paramount.
“In agreement with other local hospitals, we regret the need to suspend the visiting arrangements we have in place for at least two weeks as we are seeing cases in our hospitals and the community rise.
“Visiting will still be allowed for children, for patients being treated under John’s Campaign (for patients with dementia) or those patients receiving end of life care. Our wards will liaise with patients’ loved ones directly. Thank you for your understanding.”
Visiting to the Trust's hospital sites continues to be permitted in the following circumstances:
- The patient is receiving end-of-life care
- Pregnant women are allowed to have 1 partner with them throughout induction/labour and whilst attending their 20 week scan
- 1 parent/carer is allowed to stay with their child or baby throughout their time in hospital
- The visitor is supporting someone with dementia, a learning disability, autism, or something where not being present would cause the patient to be distressed. For patients with dementia, John’s campaign is available for one family member/carer to visit and support the patient as needed