Publish date: 11 October 2022
Unfortunately, COVID-19 prevalence is increasing with increasing numbers of cases and outbreaks within the Trust, and increased community prevalence. Therefore, from Wednesday, 12 October 2022, the use of mandatory masks will be re-introduced across all patient facing areas as set out below.
Patient facing (clinical) areas – this is any indoor area accessible by patients or members of the public. Therefore it includes: wards, reception areas, corridors, all communal areas within the hospital, walk in centres or community clinic areas and domiciliary care settings. Masks must be worn by all staff in these areas, at all times. Masks may be removed in remote, off ward administration office areas, providing these areas cannot be accessed by patients or members of the public.
Visitors will not be mandated to wear masks, but encouraged to access masks as a personal choice, as well as alcohol gel, at all hospital, clinic and ward entrances.
Office areas will not be mandated to wear masks but we will continue to supply masks for any staff who wish to wear them. Staff must be diligent with hand hygiene and ensure workspaces are cleaned in between each use.
Staff working in other healthcare settings, including acute trusts, should be compliant with local policies within these organisations.
This guidance will be reviewed week beginning 7 November 2022.