Face masks have been reintroduced at the RUH to keep patients, staff and visitors safe.

The Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath NHS Foundation Trust has re-introduced face masks for staff, patients and visitors in all clinical areas today ( July 7) following an increase in COVID-19 infections in the local community.

The changes come into effect immediately in all clinical areas include all wards, outpatient and diagnostic areas. Masks are not mandatory in the hospital corridors, although their use is encouraged.

While social distancing is no longer a mandatory requirement, people are encouraged to be mindful of each other's personal space and to wash and sanitise their hands regularly.

Chief Nurse Toni Lynch said: "To keep our patients, staff and visitors safe, we are asking everyone who attends the hospital to wear a face mask or covering in our clinical areas, unless they are exempt. There are hygiene stations at all entrances fully stocked with masks and hand sanitiser to support people to follow this guidance.

"We also ask that you do not come to the hospital if you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, unless it is an emergency. Instead, please visit the NHS website for more information on COVID-19 symptoms and what to do if you have them. "We'd like to thank everyone for their support in following this guidance. Your actions will help to keep our patients and staff safe."

The hospital announced earlier this week that it has suspended community births in Frome until the end of September due to staff shortages.

The statement :

We are very sorry to tell you that we have made the difficult decision to extend the suspension of community and home births until at least 30 September 2022. We know that many of you will be really disappointed to hear this. Despite exploring multiple alternative options, it has not been possible to reinstate our community and home births as we had hoped. This is due to ongoing staff shortages and the need to prioritise the safety of women, birthing people and their babies. We recognise that for some, your choices of birth location will be affected. Our community midwives will personally contact those who have booked a home or community birth between July and September to discuss your plans.

The maternity units at Chippenham, Frome, Paulton and Trowbridge will continue to offer antenatal, day assessment and postnatal care:

o Frome, Chippenham and Paulton - 08.00hrs – 20.00hrs