COVID-19 update

***

Due to coronavirus (COVID-19) there are currently visitor restrictions in place.

Please view the current guidance here: /coronavirus-(covid-19)/ 

 ***

Updated information about Bristol Royal Hospital for Children outpatient appointments

We understand that you may be concerned about the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. Here at the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, we wanted to update you with regards to our approach to outpatient care, which is changing due to the outbreak of coronavirus nationally. We want to make sure we take the best care possible of our patients and our staff throughout this challenging situation.

As such, we are taking the following steps:

• We will be in touch directly with you if there is any change to your planned appointment.

• Many outpatient appointments are being changed from face to face to telephone or video conferencing, to keep your child and others as safe as possible;

Please note that telephone calls may appear on your phone as from 'unknown' number; please answer as this could be a member of staff from the hospital trying to reach you.

• Where there is an urgent need for a face to face appointment, some appointments will continue to run on site;

Do not  attend a clinic appointment on site if your child or anyone in your household is experiencing the following symptoms: new persistent cough, high temperature or loss/change in your normal sense of smell or taste.

Please note only one adult is allowed to accompany a child to his/her appointments: please do not bring siblings or other family members to clinic.

• We will support you to set up any necessary technology on your home devices for video conference appointments, or offer an alternative if needed. More information and guidance on video conference appointments can be found here: /patients-and-visitors/nhs-video-consultations/

• We will ensure that if your appointment is cancelled or postponed, we will retain your details and ensure you are followed up as soon as possible given current circumstances.

• Our outpatients coordinators will be in touch with you as soon as they can, but we ask for your patience and understanding at this very challenging time.

Face coverings from 15 June 2020

We understand that wearing a face covering may not be possible for all children, but if your child is able to tolerate a facial covering then this would be advised. If you are the parent or carer accompanying the child, you must wear a face covering at all times. Exceptions can be made for those with respiratory conditions, sensory needs and people who may find it difficult to manage them correctly.

This is in line with national guidance and was introduced to all UHBW hospitals on 15 June 2020. Find out more here.

For any queries, please contact the LIAISE family information and support team on: 0117 34 28065 or email bchinfo@uhbristol.nhs.uk (calls and emails are monitored Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm. You can leave a message outside of these times and the LIAISE team will get back to you as soon as they can).

You must not visit in any circumstances if you have a new persistent cough, high temperature or loss/change in your normal sense of smell or taste.