MORE stringent visiting restrictions have been implemented across hospitals in North Wales.

With Covid-19 outbreaks at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor; Ysbyty Eryri, Caernarfon; Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan and Llandudno Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) said they have taken action to restrict access.

Gill Harris, executive director of Nursing and Midwifery at BCUHB, said: “During the Covid-19 pandemic, our visiting guidance has been kept under close review and is informed by community Covid-19 transmission rates, hospital Covid-19 admission numbers and hospital outbreaks.

“Due to the growing numbers of positive patients, both in our hospitals and in our communities, we have therefore taken the decision to further restrict access into our hospitals. This will come into effect immediately.

“Entering the hospitals named above will only be permitted if it is absolutely necessary, such as attending an outpatient appointment or if you require emergency treatment.

“This decision will not impact the visiting guidelines in place for our maternity, paediatrics and neonatal services or wards at Ysbyty Gwynedd and Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. Our visiting guidance for these services can be found here: bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/hospital-information

“Exceptional visiting requests such as visiting a relative who are at end of life must be made directly with the ward and will require an individual risk assessment to be completed both in advance of and on arrival of an agreed visit so that we can keep patients, staff and visitors safe.

“All patients attending outpatient appointments or the Emergency Department should do so alone – unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a patient requiring a carer or parent, having learning difficulties, experiencing mental health difficulties, or being unable to communicate.

“We understand how difficult not being able to visit loved ones can be and we are sorry that we have had to take this step."

The health board has free Wifi across their hospital sites. Family and friends are encouraged to keep in contact during this time using online technology.

Ms Harris added: "We understand how difficult these visiting restrictions will be for families, but please support us to minimise the impact of the virus and keep everyone safe.”

Concerns can be submitted through the Patient Advice and Liaison Service by telephoning 03000 851234 Monday to Friday between 9am – 5pm or email BCU.PALS@wales.nhs.uk