Restricted visiting has been introduced at Benbecula’s Uist and Barra Hospital until further notice due to COVID-19.

NHS Western Isles have taken the measure due to a small number of positive COVID-19 cases linked to the hospital.

Under the new regime, each inpatient will be allowed one designated visitor for one visit per day.

Essential visiting will be allowed for patients who require more frequent visits.

All visitors are asked not to visit if they are feeling unwell. Hand sanitisers should be used on entering or leaving a clinical area. Surgical masks will be provided during visits unless visitors have a medical reason not to do so.

A designated visitor is someone chosen by the patient as their named visitor.

Essential visiting is for inpatients who require more frequent visits, including women in labour, patients receiving end-of-life care, patients with mental health issues, dementia, learning disability or autism, and children.

See the detailed visiting restrictions here.