Important changes to face mask guidance from 16 May 2023

The national guidance that has required the continued wearing of face masks and face coverings across health and social care settings is being withdrawn on Tuesday 16 May 2023. 

From this date, staff in health and social care are no longer required to wear face masks and will revert to pre-pandemic measures.

Patients attending healthcare facilities will no longer be required to wear a face mask for care interactions, however, if you wish to, face masks will still be available at the entrance to departments in the next period. Alternatively, you can bring your own face covering if this is your preference.

This change in guidance reflects the success of the Covid vaccination programme. We would like to thank everyone for your continued support throughout the pandemic.

We would like to remind all visitors not to attend health and social care settings if they are unwell or experiencing any symptoms of infection, such as, flu-like symptoms, cough, or diarrhoea.