Agonising rules for parents to protect vulnerable babies in Yorkshire hospital

Video links are being set up on the neonatal intensive care unit at Hull Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, so that parents can see their babies, who could be in hospital for any number of reasons, through a password-protected app.

In the move, just one parent will be asked to visit their baby, or if the child is critically ill or dying both parents will be asked to take it in turns.

"We know how difficult this will be for families but they would expect us to do everything in our power to protect their babies and to maintain staffing levels to deliver this care," said consultant neonatologist Joanna Preece.

“Our priority must be the babies in our care and taking these steps will ensure we are doing everything possible to reduce the risk of the virus being spread in the unit.”

Visiting parents will be allocated visiting times, the hospital has said, to ensure they are at a safe distance apart of at least two metres.

No visitors will be allowed for mothers and babies on transitional care, the hospital added, in line with its policy for the rest of Hull Women and Children’s Hospital.

NICU manager Kate Lamming said: “I have written a letter for all parents to explain we have their babies’ best interests at heart.

"We are taking these steps to protect their babies, the staff who are caring for their babies and the parents themselves.

“We are very grateful for their understanding of the need to take these difficult steps.”