‘Holiday decor’ must be approved by SAH management

Sault Area Hospital (SAH) management has put restrictions on Christmas decorations at the Great Northern Road healthcare facility.

“To ensure that we are providing a safe and welcoming space for all members of our community, Sault Area Hospital limits the use of decorations intended to celebrate various events or holidays in common areas of the hospital frequented by the general public,” stated Brandy Sharp Young, SAH manager of communications and volunteer resources, in an email to SooToday.

"Exceptions to this requirement, such as volunteer/patient activities or Sault Area Hospital Foundation (SAHF) holiday-themed fundraising activity, may be approved by the Vice President of Transformation and Chief Human Resources Officer. Holiday decor in inpatient units and areas not frequented by the general public may be approved by the Department Manager. The Manager must ensure inclusive representation and an approach that respects the diversity of staff, patients, families, physicians, and volunteers,” Sharp Young wrote.

Hospital management has approved exceptions.

“At this time we do have holiday decorations displayed on various inpatient units… (and) the Foundation has their Tree of Hope installed and decorated in our main lobby,” Sharp Young wrote.

The policy was introduced at SAH in the summer.

“We revised our signage policy in August, 2017, which included the addition of the process regarding decorations,” Sharp Young stated.