THE virtual visiting service for patients and their loved ones at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) has been shortlisted for a national award.

The virtual visiting team are finalists for a Healthcare Excellence Through Technology (HETT) Unexpected Innovation Award 2021. The Unexpected Innovation Award celebrates the best of experimental design, creative thinking and radical innovation in healthcare from both individuals and teams.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, patients have been able to have a precious video call with their loved ones who are staying in hospital while visiting to the hospital was restricted to protect patients, visitors, and its people. This also complements the nominated visiting that is now available at The Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Family and friends of inpatients can email [email protected]to arrange their 10 minute video call, available seven days a week and hosted on secure video conferencing software. You can also contact a member of the team by calling 01279 962661 between 9am-12pm.

In the first year, over 1000 virtual visits took place, with these numbers continuing to rise.

Phillipa Haslehurst, voluntary services manager at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “The team deliver an efficient and emotionally impactful service, for which I am incredibly proud.

“It is a privilege to be part of bringing friends and families together.”

Shahid Sardar, associate director of patient engagement at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “It is wonderful to see the virtual visiting team receive this recognition. Their work during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a vital aspect of holistic support for our patients.

“We have been overwhelmed by the amazing feedback we have received from patients and their loved ones about this service. Well done to everyone involved.”

Sharon McNally, director of nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, added: “I am delighted that the virtual visiting team have been acknowledged for their dedication. Their contributions to the experience of our patients, their families and friends has been invaluable.

“Congratulations – we are looking forward to the finals.”

The awards ceremony will be held at the ExCel centre, London, on 28 September.