Queen’s offers additional support for patients and staff during outbreak.

Temporary visitor restrictions, introduced in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) at Queen’s and King George hospitals, can be difficult for patients, who may be feeling lonely and missing having their loved ones around.

That’s why the Chaplaincy team at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs both hospitals, is offering more support to speak to those who may need some additional support, or just a chat.

They are sharing their contact details on hospital wards which staff can give to patients who could benefit from having someone to talk to. They can then call the chaplains directly from the ward.

Chaplains are also supporting staff, offering a listening ear wherever it’s needed.

They are reducing face-to-face meetings where possible, providing support on the phone instead, however, this does not apply to end of life patients, or in exceptional circumstances.