MLA expresses concern over Trust visiting policies after woman was unable to see her mother before she died

A Newry and Armagh MLA has claimed that a local woman was unable to to visit her dying mother in Daisy Hill Hospital  in Newry during her final days, due to 'visiting rules and delays in receiving proper PPE and checks'

Liz Kimmins says she has raised concerns with the Southern Trust's Chief Executive over its visiting policies and the need for clear visiting policies to ensure that all efforts are made to ensure families can be with their loved ones, particularly during their final days.

The MLA said “I was contacted by a constituent who is deeply distressed at being unable to visit her dying mother during her final days in Daisy Hill hospital due to visiting rules and delays in receiving proper PPE and checks.

“By the time she was able to see her mother, she had already passed away, which clearly was deeply heart breaking and added to her daughter’s distress."

Ms Kimmins added “Given that her daughter was informed of her mother’s worsening situation two days before her death, she could have received PPE sooner and could have been with her mother.

“The family are deeply upset by this traumatic experience and feel strongly that the situation could have been avoided."

A spokesperson for the Southern Trust expressed their regret and have extended their sympathies.

The spokesperson said "We understand how difficult visiting restrictions can be for some patients and family members who have loved ones in hospital. 

 “Staff will always do their best to accommodate visiting in end of life and exceptional circumstances within a COVID-19 secure environment. 

“We absolutely regret that it wasn’t possible for this lady to see her mother in time and extend our sincerest sympathies on her loss.”