TWO visitors can now see inpatients at community hospital wards and mental health units in Dorset due to the further easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

Dorset HealthCare have announced that two people can now come in to see their loved ones on an appointment basis, arranged in advance with the ward.

This is to ensure the Trust knows who is on the ward and to make sure that there are not too many people in ward areas at any one time.

All visitors to the Trust’s sites are still required to wear face coverings, sanitise their hands and comply with social distancing guidelines.

It follows national advice to continue safe and responsible behaviours to minimise the spread of the virus, particularly to those who may become seriously ill if infected with Covid-19. The Trust is also asking those who have access to lateral flow kits to test and provide evidence of the result on arrival.

The Trust said cases in Dorset are currently on the rise, and advised visitors to follow steps to help avoid catching and spreading Covid-19. These include: getting vaccinated, avoiding other people if you have Covid-19 symptoms or test positive, letting fresh air in if you meet people indoors, wearing a face covering and washing hands.

As part of the national Living with Covid plan, self-isolation is not legally required if you test positive for Covid-19 but the Trust say staying at home remains the best way to avoid spreading the virus and helping to protect others.

Cara Southgate, Dorset HealthCare’s Deputy Director of Nursing, Therapies and Quality, said: “While restrictions are being removed, the pandemic is not over and Covid-19 remains in circulation. As we all learn to live with Covid, we must remain vigilant to help protect the health and wellbeing of our patients, communities and staff.

“Vaccines are our first line of defence, and it is vital that everyone eligible takes up the offer of their latest jab. Cleaning our hands, ventilating rooms well, and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces are simple steps that will also help minimise risk.”

Although the Trust’s visiting guidance has changed, visiting remains restricted to see inpatients who have Covid-19, except for compassionate reasons – for example, to see people receiving end-of-life care.=

For further information on visiting inpatients, outpatient appointments and details of all Dorset’s community hospitals and mental health units, go to www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk