Same-sex accomodation

Protecting your privacy and dignity

We know that your privacy and dignity is important to you, especially during your stay in hospital, so we have introduced same-sex accommodation throughout the Trust.

This means that if you stay in any of our wards you will either be offered your own bedroom or you will have a bed in a male-only or female-only section of the ward. You will also have access to same-sex bathroom and toilets.

What can I expect when I come into hospital?
We want to make sure that your privacy, dignity and modesty is protected at all times when you come in to hospital so wherever possible we will offer you your own bedroom.

Most of our wards are male only or female only. But, if you are admitted into a mixed-sex ward then we will place you into a same-sex section of the ward and you will either have an ensuite bathroom or else same-sex bathroom and toilets will be available close by.

Are there times when patients of different sexes have to be mixed?
There are some times when you may have to share accommodation or bathroom/toilets with members of the opposite sex but this only happens when it is in your best interest to do so. For example, if you are in need of specialist care (eg intensive care, close observation or monitoring) or if you actively choose to share mixed-sex accommodation (eg when using our rehabilitation services).

We will make every effort to protect your privacy, dignity and modesty and to discuss any accommodation issues with you, your family and/or your carers.

Will I be cared for by staff of my own sex?
No, it is likely that you will be cared for by a mixed-sex team of staff.

If you prefer to be cared for by staff of the same sex as you, then we will make every effort to try and support this but there are times when this may not be possible.

If you are unwell and need close observation then we will try to make sure that a staff member of the same sex observes you when necessary.

If there are times when you need to have a physical examination then you can choose to have someone accompany you.

Do single sex areas apply to visitors?
No, visitors are not restricted by their sex, however, because some of our patients are very unwell we do restrict visitors from certain areas. If you have concerns or questions about restricted areas for visitors then please speak to the ward manager or shift coordinator who will be able to advise you.

For further information please call our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on freephone 0800 731 2864 or email pals@slam.nhs.uk.

Read our Declaration of Compliance.