Communications
The communications team are responsible for media relations on behalf of Northampton General Hospital.
Office hours
During office hours (08:30-17:00) all media enquiries should be directed to the press office via email ngh-tr.communications@nhs.net and will then be evaluated and dealt with appropriately. This is particularly important in ensuring that information given about Northampton General Hospital is accurate, consistent and up to date.
Out-of-hours and weekends
Outside office hours any enquiries from journalists should contact the hospital switchboard on 01604 634700.
Press releases
All our latest news and press releases will be available on our website - with links from the home page and from our news pages. Our local press agencies are emailed to inform them of a new story or press release on the website. If you would like to be added to our e-mail list please contact David Tomney, Media and Communications Manager: 07595087277 / 01536 493509 or email ngh-tr.communications@nhs.net
Guidance for patients and visitors on filming, photography and recording
When coming onto site we know that some people may want to photograph, film or audio record some elements of their care or time with us. To respect the privacy and confidentiality of our patients, staff and visitors please do not take any unauthorised photos, videos or audio recordings whilst on the hospital site or in the grounds.
Any patient or visitor who would like to film, photograph or record any element of their care or care of a loved one must ask for permission from the members of staff caring for them first. When asking for permission please tell the team why you would like to have this film, photo or recording and tell them exactly where it will be used. This will help to ensure they are informed and enable them to understand the reason for your request.
Our team may decline your request for a number of reasons both professionally and personally and each case is considered individually. Please remember that our team are not under any obligation to agree to be filmed, photographed or voice recorded. We would ask that you please respect their choice and do not film, photograph or record.
Even if they agree, you must not film, photograph or record other patients or visitors to the hospital under any circumstance to maintain their confidentiality.
If you are found to be filming, taking photos or audio recording on site you will be asked to delete the content and our hospital security team may be called.
If you are approached by anyone on site asking to film, photograph or record you then please ensure they are a member of the hospital communications team. The easiest way to do this is to ask for an ID badge which will verify we work at the hospital. If you have any concerns about anyone approaching you please speak to a member of our staff or contact ngh-tr.communications@nhs.net and we will advise.
If you have any questions about this, please ask a member of the clinical team. Thank you for your cooperation.
Patient Confidentiality
We place great emphasis on the need for the strictest confidentiality in respect of our patients. We will not divulge any information about a patient unless we are given permission from the individual or their next of kin. All requests for interviewing/ photographing patients must be made through the communications team.
Filming requests
Under no circumstances may interviews, filming or photography be carried out on or around the hospital site without the express permission of the communications team. If you carry out any filming or photography without permission, our security team will request that you leave the site. If you need further information on any news stories, or would like to arrange an interview, please contact David Tomney, Media and Communications Manager: 07595087277 / 01536 493509 or email ngh-tr.communications@nhs.net.
Northampton General Hospital often receives request requests for documentary and location filming. All proposals will be considered and accommodated where possible or appropriate. Proposals for filming can be emailed to ngh-tr.communications@nhs.net.and must include the following information:
- Name and Organisation
- Production Working Title
- Delivery Format
- Target audience
- Duration
- When it will be shown/whether it has been commissioned
- Purpose of Production
- Proposed subject/s covered by filming (including staff and patients)
If your request is approved the film crew must be accompanied by a member of the communications team at all times. You must adhere to the relevant infection control procedures and may be required to wear PPE. No patients or staff can be filmed without their consent being gained first.
Major Incidents
Should a major incident occur, the hospital has a contingency plan that includes arrangements for the media. You will be given regular updates on the situation, and the opportunity for interviews. Depending on the type of incident, we will decide at the time the location of any press centre and on the best vantage point for photographs and filming.