I had an appointment booked recently at Ripley hospital. This was for a dressing change for an infection complication following bowel cancer surgery. I arrived at the hospital in plenty of time for this and found the second set of double doors to be closed which I thought was strange as on lots of previous appointments were open. Luckily for me a cleaning member of staff was going through the door at the same time and held the door for me. The was shutter was down. I then had to wait in a queue to be seen to. I was asked to sit in a chair at the door to the reception area and give my details. This was all well and good until I was told to wear a face mask to which I refused and said that it is not required by law anymore. I was then met with a response of the rules have changed and its different for different areas. Again, I refused and said I’ll come and speak to the matron next week. I was met with well you have to wear one. At which point I left saying I’ll speak to the matron next week. I then had to use my back to open the door to make this the easiest and most comfortable on my stomach. At no point did I receive any communication from the hospital about they have had a covid outbreak and it is now required to wear a facemask for pre booked appointments. Also, There is no airflow through the building if the doors are kept shut, which the NHS says is the best way of preventing the spread of covid, but also to sit facing a receptionist with no screen for protection. Surely this poses a greater risk of spreading anything. I am more than happy to come and speak to someone about this matter if you need any greater insight to all this. If a facemask is required, I will wear one so we can discuss this.

After having an ankle reconstruction operation in June, which required a cast on my leg, I had to attend Ripley Urgent Treatment Centre today, as the cast was affecting my circulation and I was concerned about potential signs of infection. Whilst there, I was treated with great care and respect. Staff were all professional but friendly and provided fantastic support to both myself and my husband. The situation was swiftly addressed and I felt listened to and consulted at every point of my visit. What a fantastic service and credit to the NHS.