PATIENTS in hospital have a new way to hear from their loved ones, as Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust launches a patient messaging service to support patients, their family and friends during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Friends and family can pass on special messages to their loved one in hospital in Andover, Basingstoke or Winchester by visiting https://www.hampshirehospitals.nhs.uk/patients-visitors/stay-touch-messaging-service.

Details needed include the patient's full name and date of birth, in addition to the hospital and ward the patient is currently on. As well as adding a personalised message, those using the service can choose one of four designs for the patient to receive on a special card.

Alex Whitfield, chief executive of Hampshire Hospitals, said: “We understand how important it is for friends and family to stay connected during this difficult time and hope that this will make it a little bit easier.

“Whilst national guidance and visiting restrictions stay in place for everyone’s safety, our staff are doing an incredible job of being there to support our patients emotionally, as well as providing the expert care they need, but we know it’s not the same as having their loved ones by their side.

“We hope that this service will bring a help our patients feel a bit more connected to their loved ones, and give friends and family a further opportunity to stay in touch.”

In addition to the stay in touch messaging service, patients can also make free outgoing calls to 01, 02 and 03 numbers (landline numbers) and receive calls from friends and family via their bedside unit 24/7.

Patients also have access to free TV during the pandemic using the bedside screens, and can also continue to access free radio stations.