Visiting Hours
Visiting hours are flexible and will depend on how the patient is feeling; please do check with the nursing staff for the most appropriate time.
While we welcome visitors, please co-ordinate visits so that the patient has the opportunity to have restful periods during the day.
Visitors may be asked to vacate the patients’ room or bedside for clinical care to be given or for the housekeeping team to undertake their cleaning duties.
Access
During the day, visitors can access the In-Patient Unit via reception.
Out of working hours, there is a night entrance to the In-Patient Unit. You will be required to press the button on the intercom system to enter the building.
Keeping everyone safe
We are committed to reducing the risk of infection and hand washing is one of the most effective ways of preventing the spread of germs. Even if hands look clean they can still carry a lot of viruses and bacteria.
Visitors will be asked to use the hand gel at reception and before entering the ward. Visitors can help us maintain good hand hygiene by washing their hands after using the toilet and before touching food or snacks.
Visitors who have recently been unwell, particularly with coughs, colds, sickness and diarrhoea, are requested not to visit until symptom free for 48 hours.
Practical Information
Free parking is available on site.
We have beautiful gardens open to patients and visitors. These are accessible by wheelchair or scooter.
Drink making facilities are available free of charge for all visitors in the relatives’ kitchen, situated just outside the ward.
Volunteers also offer hot and cold drinks throughout the day.
A snack trolley located on the ward is available for patients and visitors to purchase chocolate, sweets, crisps, drinks and a small selection of toiletries.
Family or friends are welcome to enjoy a meal from the menu with patients, for a nominal charge.
A visitors room is available to use as a space away from the patients bedspace which includes a dining table for meals to be enjoyed at.
Toilets for relatives and visitors are located at the end of the main corridor. We ask that you do not use the facilities in the patient’s room.
If you require baby changing facilities please ask a member of staff.
Gifts and cards can be purchased from the hospice shop in reception.
Family and friends can phone the ward at any time. You are welcome to use your mobile phone but please be respectful of other people. The unit offers wireless internet access and free TV access.
Visitors are asked to smoke off-site please.
Well-behaved pets are welcome to visit; please make arrangements with staff.
If a patient is at the end of their life, there is limited accommodation that may be available for short term use only. Please discuss this with the Nurse in Charge.
We ask that one person visiting, usually the next of kin, after gaining consent from the patient, communicates any updates with wider family, if appropriate.
Areas in and around the hospice grounds are monitored by CCTV in the interests of patient and staff safety.
If you have any questions about visiting or need support during your time at the In-Patient Unit, our nursing team will be happy to help.
More information for patients