QEH King's Lynn has a new Covid19 support line to help families and patients feel less isolated

One of the most devastating parts of the pandemic has been the lack of contact patients have had to endure with their loved ones outside.

Hospital Chief Executive Caroline Shaw and Chief Operating Officer Denise Smith have introduced a new family liaison service that began on January 25.

This will allow families to keep track of their loved one's progress and send them messages.

It has been designed to re-assure those on the outside and take the pressure away from overwhelmed nursing staff when they are caring for patients.

Nationwide families have been heartbroken when they have called the hospital, and are unable to get through or find out more information.

Caroline Shaw said this service is 'vital' during the pandemic; for both staff and families.

She said: "Nursing staff and doctors are working tirelessly on the front line and we couldn't be more proud of our team at the QEH.

"However, due to the astounding amount of pressure they are under with staff going off sick and the sheer volume of patients passing through our

doors we recognise that families may not be receiving the same level of compassion that they need at this difficult time."

"All of our nursing staff care so much about patient welfare and and they have gone above and beyond with patient care, however they just don't have the

resources to be on the phone all of the time.

"We want to give the families of patients the high level of support they deserve so they don't feel helpless and the nursing staff can focus on giving the highest possible level

of care."

The number to call is: 01553 214540

Monday to Friday: 8am-5pm

Saturday and Sunday: 9am-4pm

There will be an answer phone facility for outside of these hours will a call back the next day.