Revised rules on inpatient visiting | Our news

We welcome visitors to inpatients in our hospitals, in line with the latest government guidance on managing Covid-19.

In principle each inpatient is allowed one visitor at a time; although each ward will have its own specific arrangements depending on circumstances. End-of-life patients will be able to have four visitors, each of whom will be required to take a lateral flow test beforehand.  

Our wards are implementing these changes gradually to ensure we roll them out in the most effective and safe way for our patients, their loved ones and our staff.

Visiting is still restricted in some areas, so please check the pages of the hospital you would like to visit for the latest guidance and visiting times.

• Newham Hospital
• St Bartholomew's Hospital 
• The Royal London Hospital
• Whipps Cross Hospital  

All visitors are expected to follow our strict infection control rules - including wearing a surgical face mask, keeping your distance, and washing or disinfecting your hands regularly. You will be screened for symptoms before attending, and may be asked to take a lateral flow test too. If you are experiencing any symptoms, please do not attend the hospital.         

Please remember, our staff are very busy. They are working very hard to support visiting arrangements but you may not get a response from our wards or booking lines as quickly as you would like. However the team will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience.

The number of Covid cases is increasing again so our visitor guidance may change at short notice. We will update our website with the latest information, so please check before attending your appointment.

We also have other ways you can keep in touch with loved ones virtually:

• Send a message to your loved one; You can send messages and photos to inpatients using our online form
• Virtual visiting; We encourage the use of digital devices to help stay in contact with your loved ones