NHS Ayrshire & Arran has taken the “difficult decision” to extend the current visiting restrictions in acute hospitals for a further two weeks.

This means that essential visiting only will continue within University Hospitals Ayr and Crosshouse.

All other hospitals will continue to support two designated visitors.

Jennifer Wilson, Interim Nurse Director, explains: “As community prevalence of COVID-19 remains high, we have had to make the very difficult decision to extend the essential visiting restrictions currently in place.

“We really do appreciate how difficult it is not being able to visit a loved one in hospital. However, we need to take all necessary measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 across our hospitals and keep our patients and staff safe

“We will be carefully monitoring the situation so that we can welcome visitors back as soon as it is safe to do so.

”We don’t underestimate the impact of social isolation on our patients. And so our ward staff will continue to support patients and their loved ones to keep in touch during this time with the use of technology.

“I would like to thank you for your patience and understanding at this time.”

If you would like to arrange a ‘virtual visit’ (video call) with a friend or family member in one of our hospitals, please contact the ward directly to organise a call.

Family members are also able to drop off clothes and personal items for patients at designated areas within both hospitals. Please speak to ward staff who will be able to advise you.