Months after the coronavirus lockdown restrictions first came into force, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust has relaxed some restrictions on visiting patients at St Mary’s Hospital.

Some limited visiting is now allowed - in what the Trust is calling a 'controlled and planned way'.

It says it is working to keep patients, staff and the wider community safe, while allowing Islanders to see loved ones.

The changes include:

  • Staggered visiting times.
  • Patients allowed one visitor, at a specified time each day.
  • Visitors must wear a face covering at all times.
  • Social distancing guidance must be followed - including washing hands regularly.
  • All visitors must have been free of COVID-19 symptoms for at least 14 days.

If you need to visit a loved one urgently, the Trust says exceptions may be made on compassionate grounds, but arrangements need to be discussed with staff on the ward in advance.

Alice Webster, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, said:

“Covid-19 has changed the way the NHS works, right across the country and not just here on the Island. We have put in place a range of measures to keep our patients, staff and the community safe

“Thankfully the number of cases and deaths linked to Covid-19 was relatively low when compared with much of the country. We are not complacent and will do everything possible to keep people safe

“We are allowing more visitors to our hospital because we know how important it is for patients to feel connected to their friends, relatives and loved ones.”

If you are unable to visit, the Trust is running special delivery services called Message to Loved Ones and Essential Items.

CLICK HERE for more information on ward opening times, and guidance for visitors.