P64 Delivering Same Sex Accommodation

Every patient has the right to receive high quality care that is safe, effective and respects their Privacy and Dignity. There are no exemptions from the need to provide high standards of privacy and dignity and this applies to all areas, including when admission is unplanned. This is one of the guiding principles of the NHS Constitution (2009) and at the core of local NHS visions.

Derbyshire Community Health Trust ( DCHS) aim is that all patients who are admitted to any of our hospitals will only share the room where they sleep with members of the same sex, and same sex toilets and bathrooms will be close to their bed area. Sharing with members of the opposite sex should only happen by exception based on clinical need (for example where patients need specialist equipment), or when patients choose to share (for instance married couple who have been admitted together may want to share a side room).

This Policy contributes to the achievement of CQC Outcome 4 – The patient will receive care, treatment and support in single sex accommodation wherever it is available.

The aim is to ensure a clear and consistent approach is adopted across DCHS community hospitals by all ward managers.

Policy Categories

  • Clinical