To help keep our hospitals safe, we ask visitors not to bring latex balloons into any hospital buildings, wards, outpatient departments or public areas (including atriums).

Some people have a latex allergy, and exposure can cause symptoms within minutes. In rare cases, it can lead to a life-threatening reaction (anaphylaxis).

Why latex balloons are a problem in hospitals

Latex balloons can release tiny particles into the air and onto surfaces. In busy hospital environments, this increases the chance of accidental exposure for anyone who is sensitised to latex.

What you can bring instead

We know gifts are often brought to cheer someone up. Choosing latex-free options helps protect people with allergies.

• Foil / metallic balloons labelled non-latex
• Cards
• Books, puzzles or colouring items
• Small comfort items (please check with the ward if you’re unsure)

Recognising an allergic reaction

Symptoms can include:

• Itchy rash or hives
• Swelling of the face, lips or eyes
• Itching or tingling in the mouth
• Throat tightness, hoarse voice, trouble swallowing
• Wheezing, coughing or breathing difficulty
• Dizziness, feeling faint or collapsing

Call 999 immediately if someone has severe breathing difficulty, swelling of the tongue or throat, or becomes faint or collapses.

NHS Forth Valley aims to make sure that all patients can access their healthcare safely and comfortably. We understand that pets, including dogs, can be a source of comfort. However, to protect the health and safety of everyone being treated or working in our hospitals, we have the following policy about dogs and other animals on our premises.

Assistance dogs

Trained assistance dogs that support people with a disability, (for example, guide dogs or hearing dogs).

Under the Equality Act 2010, an assistance dog is generally defined as:

• A dog trained to guide a blind person
• A dog trained to assist a deaf person or someone with hearing difficulties
• A dog trained to help people with other disabilities such as epilepsy, diabetes and physical mobility problems carry out everyday tasks.

Emotional support animals and pets

Dogs and other animals that provide emotional support, companionship, or comfort are not usually permitted inside hospitals.  Emotional support animals are not legally recognised in the UK as assistance dogs and do not automatically have access to healthcare environments.

Please note that ESA certificates or ID cards issued by private organisations do not have legal status in the UK and do not give pets automatic access to healthcare premises.

Why this is important

NHS Forth Valley takes safety and infection control very seriously. Allowing untrained animals into clinical areas could:

• impact our strict infection control and cleanliness standards
• pose a safety risk if an animal behaves unpredictably
• affect other patients or staff with allergies or phobias

What you can do

If you need support to attend your appointment, please speak to a member of staff. They can discuss options such as:

• a friend, family member, or carer accompanying you
• someone waiting with your dog outside the building
• telephone or video appointments where clinically suitable

We are happy to work with you to make reasonable arrangements. If you have any questions or concerns please speak to a member of staff or contact our Equality, Inclusion and Wellbeing Service at fv.equality@nhs.scot