We are proud to confirm that mixed-sex accommodation has been virtually eliminated at all Care UK-run NHS treatment centres
Further information on our work to deliver same-sex accommodation
Every patient has the right to receive high quality care that is safe, effective and respects their privacy and dignity. Care UK is committed to providing every patient with same-sex accommodation, because it helps to safeguard their privacy and dignity when they are often at their most vulnerable.
We are proud to confirm that mixed-sex accommodation has been virtually eliminated at all Care UK NHS treatment centres. Patients who are admitted to 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 will only happen by exception, based on clinical need (for example where patients need specialist equipment or intensive monitoring such as in our high dependency units).
Some diagnostic areas, such as endoscopy units, have particular difficulties meeting these requirements but the risks to patients have been fully assessed and each unit has a local plan to reduce those risks or eliminate the problem completely. These plans are available from the general manager at each treatment centre on request.
What does this mean for patients?
Other than in the circumstances set out above, patients admitted to Care UK NHS treatment centres can expect to find the following:
Same-sex accommodation means:
- Where you will be sleeping there will only be patients of the same sex as you
- Your toilet and bathroom will be just for your gender and will be close to your bed area
It is possible that there will be both male and female patients on the ward, but they will not share your sleeping area. You may have to cross a ward corridor to reach your bathroom, but you will not have to walk through opposite-sex areas.
You may share some communal space, such as day rooms or dining rooms, and it is very likely that you will see both male and female patients as you move around the hospital (eg, on your way to X-ray or the operating theatre).
It is probable that visitors of the opposite gender will come into the room where your bed is and this may include patients visiting each other.
It is almost certain that both male and female nurses, doctors and other staff will come into your bed area.
If you need help to use the toilet or take a bath (eg, you need a hoist or special bath) then you may be taken to a unisex bathroom, but a member of staff will be with you, and other patients will not be in the bathroom at the same time.
How will we measure success?
Care UK will continue to monitor patient satisfaction regarding mixed-sex accommodation through the Department of Health inpatient survey, local surveys and local patient engagement and feedback.
What do I do if I think I am in mixed-sex accommodation?
We want to know about your experiences. Please contact the general manager of the Care UK NHS treatment centre where you had your care if you have any comments or concerns.
