Blackpool Victoria Hospital boss tells staff to 'politely challenge' those breaching social distancing rules

Chief executive Kevin McGee said “the rules apply to us as much as anyone else” but admitted social distancing isn’t always realistic on the coronavirus frontlines.

He told staff in a letter: “Obviously, there are some aspects of our work where this is impossible - hence appropriate PPE [personal protective equipment]. However, in moving around the trust and carrying out your work, you must keep your distance. Keep to the left when walking down our corridors and keep two metres apart.”

Hundreds of medics at the trust have been confirmed to have the virus, while medical director Dr Jim Gardner said earlier this week that two teams had been forced into self-isolation as a result of positive results.

Mr McGee said: “If you see someone who isn’t social distancing or is making it difficult for you to distance yourself - for example, if they are blocking a route - it really is okay to politely challenge them. Indeed, you should challenge them.

“And if its you being challenged, remember our trust values and behave accordingly. Remember, this is policy, not a suggestion.”

Mr McGee, who took some time off at the start of the month, said it was a “much-needed few days away from work and something that reminded me of the importance of striking the work-life balance”, and urged medics to follow suit.

He said the pandemic had “overtaken his life” as it had for the “vast majority of people in the trust”, many of whom had “given up leave over the last few months”.

And he added: “That support and help was gratefully received but there is a realisation now that Covid is not going to go away anytime soon and I would encourage everyone to take some leave when they can to look after their own health and wellbeing.

“I know people are physically and mentally tired because of the situation they are working in, and I am making a heartfelt plea for those people to take the leave they are due.

“A short rest makes a massive difference...”