Patients, visitors and staff to wear face masks and face coverings from 15 June

Following Government guidance, from Monday 15 June all staff and visitors to Sheffield Children sites will need to wear surgical face masks (staff) or face coverings (visitors).

Why are we doing this?

• Reduces the risk of transmission – Evidence has shown that those infected with COVID-19 can have very mild or no respiratory symptoms (asymptomatic) and can transmit the virus to others without being aware of it. The wearing of a face mask as well as handwashing and social distancing aims to reduce risks of transmission from people who are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic for COVID-19.
• Staff play an important role in preventing transmission in hospitals and healthcare environments: It is important that we take steps to reduce the risk of transmission by asking ensuring all staff (clinical and non-clinical) wear masks at all times.
• Helping keep you safe  – When patients and families come to us for emergency, planned and outpatient care, or as visitors, they will need to wear a face covering. By doing so, they are helping to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus and keeping our hospital and other sites safe.

We ask that any patient and accompanying adult wear a face covering when entering any site of Sheffield Children’s.

There are some exceptions:

• Face coverings should not be used by children under the age of 3.
• Exceptions can be made for those visitors or patients with respiratory conditions, sensory needs and people who may find it difficult to manage them correctly.

Please bring your own face covering to help us. However, if you do happen to forget your face covering when coming to Sheffield Children’s, we will provide you with a mask.

Even if you are wearing a mask or face covering please remember to still:

• Wash your hands regularly
• Keep 2 metres away from others

Staff may look a little different to usual when you visit Sheffield Children’s as they will all be wearing masks and some others may wear other personal protective equipment.

Visit our patient resource page for a video and pictures about what PPE is and what people might be wearing https://www.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk/patients-and-parents/coronavirus-resources-for-children-and-families/

You can even ‘create your own’ person wearing PPE!

If you are unsure about anything about an appointment or visit to the Trust, please contact the number on your appointment letter.