A NUMBER of changes are being introduced at Royal Berkshire Hospital (RBH) as there has been an increase in positive Covid-19 patients.

The changes are being implemented to help ease pressure on staff and services.

A hospital spokesperson explained all non-urgent elective cases will be paused for the next two weeks, apart from cancer, urgent care and endoscopy procedures.

This move applies to the RBH site only, and the other sites at West Berkshire Community Hospital, Townlands and Prince Charles Eye Unit will not be affected.

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They added this action is in line with national requests to pause elective work and redeploy staff to other key service areas.

The spokesperson said: "Whilst there is added pressure due to the rise in positive cases, the hospital is under control and is maintaining hot and cold areas throughout the site to help manage the demand.

"The situation is being monitored regularly to ensure patients and staff are kept safe and infection control measures are followed.

"We are working hard to ensure safety for all patients and if you are invited for a planned appointment, it is absolutely safe to do so and we are here and want to help."

Visiting is allowed in exceptional circumstances only, with the agreement of the ward manager.

These restrictions are in place to protect everyone at the hospital, patients and staff inclusive.

The hospital spokesperson added: "We appreciate this may be difficult for families, and encourage people to forward cards and letters to patients via the PALS team who will arrange delivery.

"In some cases, there are also phone and virtual visits that can be accommodated and these can be organised with the ward manager.

"You can help by reminding friends, family and people attending hospital of the importance of the hands, face and space rules and remember to stick to these rules yourselves.

"There are a range of alternative healthcare options available including the Walk in Centre, GPs, pharmacist and NHS online, where appropriate.

"If you are feeling unwell and are not sure which service you need, contact NHS 111 for advice.

"It’s important we do all we can to ease pressure on our services and teams so we are able to treat those in most need of urgent care."