Face Coverings

Requirements to wear a mask have been reduced from 9 June 2022, in line with national guidance

However we have decided to keep the rule in place, and those visiting our NHS sites will still be required to wear a face mask during face to face appointments and community visits,unless instructed otherwise.

Friends or relatives visiting any patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 will also be required to wear a face mask and in other areas, if they are requested to do so by the clinical team in the area that they are visiting.

There are additional situations situations when we encourage you to wear a mask:

• Patients with respiratory symptoms who attend the Emergency Department and those admitted with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are encouraged to wear a face mask if you are able to and can be offered one on arrival. 
• We encourage patients who are at high risk of infection due to immunosuppression (e.g. oncology/haematology patients) to wear a face mask if you feel comfortable doing so.

Where can I get a face covering?

Face coverings can be cloth and/or homemade, and advice on how to wear and make one can be found on the government website.

Face coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice are also acceptable for when a mask is needed, providing they are not loose and cover the mouth and nose

Face coverings are available from dispensers at our sites, or ask a member of staff.

Further information

If you have any questions, please ask a member of our staff. For further information, please contact PALS on 020 8401 3210 or email ch-tr.pals@nhs.net so that they can support you.