Relatives’ Liaison Team reassembles at Norfolk & Norwich Hospital
It's because visitor restrictions are in place
A vital link between patients' relatives and ward staff has been re-established at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital as part of the Trust's response to the second wave of coronavirus.
With visiting restrictions in place because of Covid-19, the Relatives' Liaison Team has been reactivated to help keep families updated when their loved one is receiving treatment.
The team can be contacted by emailing RelativesLiaisonTeam@nnuh.nhs.uk or by calling 07749 714020 to help provide support to families.
Sarah Higson, Lead for Patient Engagement and Experience, said the team is making a difference to the experience of care for patients and families.
She said:
"They are providing a vital link between patients and families at a time when visiting is not possible. Not only are they able to offer updates on patients, they can also provide pastoral support to relatives and carers and signpost them to additional support they might need as well."
Darian Parsons, a Plastic Out-patient Nurse, joined the team while shielding.
She said:
"On average I'm taking 17 calls a day from different families. They really appreciate having somebody who keeps them updated on their loved ones. We also act as a listening ear for families' worries and concerns.
Communications is crucial in such a challenging time, people out there are scared and it's important to make them feel their loved ones are looked after and receive the best possible care at the hospital."
Virtual visiting continues to be in place at NNUH for friends and family to keep in touch with their loved ones. The donation of iPads to NNUH wards enables patients and their family and friends to see and speak to each other while they are in hospital. You can arrange a Virtual Visit by contacting the appropriate ward.