Visiting suspended at Great Western Hospital

Great Western Hospital have suspended visiting due to a rise in Covid 19 cases in Swindon.

In the latest 24 hour period, more than 700 people in the borough tested positive, but there are concerns over how the new Omicron variant will affect vulnerable and elderly populations.

The case rate has nearly tripled to 313 cases per 100 thousand people compared to the start of the month.

In a statement, Great Western Hospital said "As COVID cases in the local community have significantly risen in Swindon, we have made the decision to suspend visiting at the Great Western Hospital.

"We understand this is difficult for many families and friends, as well as patients, but we want to do all we can to keep you safe.

"Visiting or speaking with friends and family is important to the wellbeing of our patients and we are doing all we can to help patients stay in touch with their loved ones with WhatsApp video calls."

Visiting exceptions

There are exceptions, including visiting patients receiving end of life care, children and women under the care of our maternity service. Family, friends and carers are therefore encouraged to contact individual wards with any questions or concerns.

All visits must be arranged in advance with the ward manager or nurse in charge, who will make a decision based on individual circumstances.

• Carers are able to visit patients who require them for personal, physical or emotional care and support - e.g., patients with learning disabilities or dementia.

• Both parents or guardians of children can visit at the same time.

• One parent or guardian may accompany a person under the age of 16 to the Emergency Department, the Urgent Treatment Centre, or to an Outpatients appointment.

• Family, friends or carers of patients who are receiving end of life care

• Pregnant women / person attending pre-natal scans can be accompanied by one other person. Children should not attend.

• All women/birthing people can have two birthing partners with them in labour to our Delivery Suite and the White Horse Birth Centre and one person visit them on Hazel ward between 9.00am and 9.00pm.

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