New 'love letters' service to beat Covid communication breakdown between Atherstone families and relatives in hospital

GEORGE ELIOT LAUNCHES SERVICE IN RESPONSE TO VIRUS CRISIS IMPOSING RESTRICTIONS ON VISITING PATIENTS

HOSPITAL bosses want to bring Atherstone closer to its nearest and dearest separated by the Covid-19 crisis.

'Letters for Loved Ones' aims to bridge the yawning communications chasm the pandemic has created for families unable to see relatives and friends in the George Eliot Hospital.

The new service has been set up specifically in response to the virus crisis which has seen the Nuneaton hospital having to restrict all patient visiting.

The scheme will provide a way for loved ones to send messages, letters and photographs to their family members or friends in the hospital.

Relatives and friends are asked to provide the patient's full name, date of birth and the ward they are staying on.

A team of specially-trained volunteers will then ensure the messages are delivered to the patients on the wards.

Patient experience manager Becky Millward said: "We understand it's an extremely difficult time when loved ones are in hospital.

"However, we hope that this service will provide comfort to both the patients and to their families and friends at home."

Messages can be sent one of three ways:

· A phone call to a dedicated line 07818 510483; or