THE Countess of Chester Hospital has set up a dedicated team to help patients stay in touch with loved ones while visiting is restricted due to the coronavirus crisis.

The newly-launched Family Support Team will help those in hospital without a mobile phone to contact next of kin and update them on their condition, either by phone conversation or a video call.

The team is also encouraging relatives to email them so messages can be passed on to patients.

Visiting is currently suspended until further notice. Only in exceptional circumstances – when a patient is receiving end-of-life care, you are the birthing partner accompanying a woman in labour, or you are a parent or appropriate adult visiting your child – is one visitor allowed.

The Countess of Chester Hospital said: "We know it is a difficult time to have a family member/friend in hospital. Due to restricted visiting and the ward staff dealing with a high volume of calls we have introduced a new service enabling people to keep up to date with their loved one's condition during their stay in hospital.

"If possible it is advised to bring a mobile phone for patients to keep in contact directly. If this is not possible the Family Support Team will be the link between patients and their loved ones. An email service has also been created where people can send a letter to be shared with patients."

To contact the team email coch.familysuppportteam@nhs.net or call between 10am and 8pm on 01244 363941.