PEOPLE are being reminded that they need to continue to follow Covid safety measures when accessing health services across Bradford District and Craven.

The call has come from the Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, following the publication of the Government’s Living with Covid plan has lifted the last remaining restrictions.

However to protect patients, visitors and colleagues all healthcare settings still ask people to wear a face covering on site (unless exempt), practice good hand hygiene and keep a safe distance from others.

Visiting restrictions still apply across hospitals, with people advised to check the latest guidance before travelling to see their loved ones.

A reminder is also being issued for people to come forward for any of their vaccinations if they’ve not yet had them.

Those that have not had their first, second or booster dose are being encouraged to come forward and have the vaccine. There are pop-up and walk-in vaccination clinics taking place across the district.

Professor Mel Pickup, place based lead (designate) for the Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership and chief executive for Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Face coverings, social distancing measures and good hand hygiene remain in place across the NHS so that people can continue to safely attend our hospitals, their GP surgery or any other healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment. 

"We all have our part to play when visiting healthcare premises to protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections.

"You can do your bit by following the current measures already in place and also by getting vaccinated. Whether it's your first, second or booster dose we are ready to vaccinate you.

"Health and care staff and our communities have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic to do all we can to minimise the impact of Covid, let's not undo the hard work but work together to minimise the risk of spreading Covid.”

Sarah Muckle, Director for Public Health at Bradford Council, added: “Covid is still around, it is still affecting people and it has not gone away.

"That’s why I would remind everyone of their responsibilities to take whatever measures they can to prevent others getting Covid.

“The best way to protect yourself is by getting two Covid vaccine doses and a booster, keep indoor spaces well ventilated (e.g., opening windows) and regular hand washing.

"I would encourage people to continue to wear masks when in crowded situations, like on public transport or in enclosed spaces (where there will be large numbers of people).”

People accessing healthcare settings should:

  • Wear a face covering
  • Use the alcohol gel available or wash their hands with soap for 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching the front of any face covering as it is likely to be contaminated
  • Maintaining a safe distance from others wherever possible
  • Practising good hand hygiene