A new scheme has been introduced at Queen Elizabeth and Lewisham hospitals allowing loved ones to drop off belongings to patients, whilst keeping staff and patients safe.

Patient Belongings Hubs are being introduced by Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust at both of its major hospitals.

Staffed by volunteers, the hubs allow family and friends to drop off a small bag per patient which will be taken to the ward and given to the patient.

Current coronavirus restrictions mean visiting is banned in order to protect patients and staff from the virus, hence the hubs have been introduced to allow patients a piece of home, or comfort.

And the hubs are already open, operating Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, although this is dependent on volunteers being available.

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The University Lewisham Hospital drop off point is at the main entrance corridor opposite Muffin Break.

At the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich, the drop point is by the main entrance next to the reception desk.

The NHS trust say things welcome in the bag include clothes, toiletries, books and magazines, as well as non-perishable food and drink such as biscuits and squash, with all food sealed in containers.

Valuables such as mobile phones, money and tablets can be included at the owner's risk - all items will remain with the patient and L&G Trust say they cannot accept responsibility for missing items.

But hot food of any kind, glass or breakables, flowers and balloons are all not going to be accepted.

The trust added these further details:

  • If you are bringing in medication, please alert the hub team when dropping off
  • We can accept one small bag – no holdalls or suitcases
  • Bag should be clearly marked with patient’s name, date of birth and ward – we can supply labels
  • Please respect social distancing measures and wear face coverings in our hospitals