From July 13 there will be limited easing of the restrictions in the hospital to allow visitors.

In line with guidance from the Scottish Government, one visitor per patient will be allowed for patients who are admitted to hospital. Patients must inform the nurse/midwife in charge who their designated visitor is, so that we can take their name and contact details.

David McArthur, Director of Nursing & Acute Services said:

“There will not be set visiting times, so all visitors must phone ahead to the hospital and inform the nurse in charge when they intend to visit so we can agree the best time for you.This is so that we can ensure that wards do not become overcrowded and we can maintain physical distancing where possible and provide patients and visitors with a degree of privacy.

“We are looking forward to welcoming back visitors to the hospital and recognise how important this is for patients. I would ask if you could help us in keeping patients and staff safe by following physical distancing rules, putting on a face mask when you enter the building and using the hand sanitiser provided. We are encouraging everyone to also continue to use mobile phones and tablets as a means of keeping in touch with family in between visits.”

The Balfour restaurant will remain closed, however plans are underway to have the shop re-opened, normal goods will be on sale including sandwiches and drinks.

Link: What happens on a visit to Kirkwall’s Balfour Hospital

Orkney’s new Balfour Hospital