Hospital introduces flexible visiting hours

Visitors can now attend between 08:00 and 20:00 on most wards

Flexible visiting hours have been introduced at a hospital.

Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust now welcomes visitors between 08:00 and 20:00 BST in most wards.

The new guidance recognises the "invaluable role and contribution" which family, friends and carers provide to patients, a spokesperson from the trust said.

The change does not apply to the Critical Care, Acute Cardiacm Maternity and Neonatal Services and Day Surgery units.

Tania Currie, Head of Patient Experience and Engagement, said: “We know that the quality of care for patients is improved by involving the family, friends, and carers of our patients.

"It is important to us that patients know that they have a right to receive visits and to be accompanied to appointments based on their personal preference."

She added that the trust has a commitment to ensuring that "all visitors feel welcomed".