Visiting a patient

Visiting a patient

We welcome visitors to all our hospitals. Visiting times vary by ward, so please check with the ward team. If you’d like to contact a ward, please call our switchboard or visit our dedicated hospital pages.

What do I need to know when visiting?

• Please report to the nurse or midwife station when you arrive.
• Only two visitors are allowed at the bedside at one time.
• Exceptions may be made for patients who are very unwell, receiving end-of-life care, or who have learning disabilities or complex needs — speak to the nurse in charge.
• Use hand sanitiser when entering and leaving, and do not visit if you have had sickness, diarrhoea, cold or flu symptoms in the past 48 hours.
• We protect mealtimes, but relatives and carers are welcome to help patients eat. Please ask staff before giving food or drink to a patient.
• Please do not take photos or videos of anyone without their consent.
• Chaplains are available at any time for pastoral care.

Can I visit if I’m a parent, carer or support person?

• Outpatients: You may bring a friend, family member or advocate to your appointment.
• Children and young people: Parents, carers, siblings and close friends are encouraged to visit. A parent or carer can stay overnight if needed.
• Maternity:
  • One birthing partner can attend all ultrasound appointments.
  • Two birth partners can attend the birth.
  • A companion can usually stay overnight during inpatient maternity care.
  • Outpatient areas may be limited to one support person.

Can I visit a specialist unit?

Some areas, like intensive care (ICU) or neonatal units, have extra guidelines. Please speak to the nurse in charge before visiting.

What facilities are available at the hospital?

Facilities vary at each hospital. Please visit the individual hospital pages for more information.