Clear Commitment on same sex hospital accommodation

29.05.2009

In a report to Board members, NHS Gloucestershire today confirmed that over £951,000 is being invested to further improve privacy and dignity and ensure same sex accommodation for all inpatients in Gloucestershire by March 2010.

Significant progress has already been made with the majority of patients benefiting from same sex sleeping accommodation and bathroom facilities.

The investment is part of a commitment from NHS Gloucestershire and provider trusts to make further sustained progress during the course of this year.

High priority is being given to eliminate mixed sex accommodation (sharing of a sleeping area or bathroom accommodation) from district general hospital wards (Cheltenham General Hospital and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital).

Work is also being stepped up to eliminate mixed sex accommodation from day service facilities and community hospitals.

Director of Clinical Development, Jill Crook said:

“Our priority is to provide every patient with same sex accommodation, helping to safeguard their privacy and dignity when they are often at their most vulnerable.”

“Despite the major improvements and achievements in the NHS in recent years, supported by excellent nursing care, we know that this remains an area that requires sustained effort from all parts of the NHS in Gloucestershire.”

“We do recognise that there are real challenges due to constraints within some of the existing buildings. However, with investment in current infrastructure and new facilities, real progress is being made.”

“As well as the investment, it is important to recognise that staff will have a key role to play in helping us to achieve this important priority for patients.”

“Patients have a right to expect the highest standards of care and treatment when they visit hospital and we know that safeguarding an individual’s privacy and dignity is a major contributor to the patient experience.”

NHS Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have clear action plans in place to meet all quality standards by March 2010.

Department of Health Guidance: Same-sex accommodation - your privacy, our responsibility. Please click here for more information

Department of Health Guidance: Safety, privacy and dignity in mental health units: guidance on mixed sex accommodation for mental health services. Please click here for more information