Please note that until 31 March 2026, core visiting hours will be 2pm to 8pm. From 1 April 2026 these will be expanded to 10am to 8pm.
We welcome visiting on our inpatient wards for all our patients during the core hours of 10am to 8pm.
We recognise friends and loved ones play a vital role in supporting a patient's recovery and wellbeing. Our visitors' charter explains what you can expect of us during your visit and what we ask of you in return.
Respect and professionalism
What you can expect from us
We will always be professional, polite, and respectful to our patients and visitors at all times.
What we expect from you
- Please be polite and respectful to our staff, other patients, and visitors throughout your visit.
Infection prevention
What you can expect from us
We are committed to reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
What we expect from you
- Do not visit if you are unwell with a cough, cold, or any potentially infectious illness.
- If you have been unwell, please wait at least 48 hours after your last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting before visiting.
- Use the hand gel provided when entering the hospital and ward.
- You may be asked to wear personal protective equipment (such as a mask or apron) to protect yourself and others.
- Follow all infection control signage – please ask staff if you are unsure.
- Use designated public toilets rather than patient bathrooms on the ward.
Clean and safe environment
What you can expect from us
We are committed to keeping our hospitals clean and maintaining a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
What we expect from you
- Our domestic teams may ask you to temporarily step away from the bedside or bay to allow cleaning to take place. Please support this to help maintain hygiene standards.
Mealtimes
What you can expect from us
We will meet patients’ nutritional needs and minimise interruptions during mealtimes.
What we expect from you
- You are welcome to help with mealtimes if appropriate, but we understand if you are unable to do so.
- Food and drinks provided on the ward are for patients only. Staff can direct you to where refreshments are available.
Privacy and dignity
What you can expect from us
We will promote privacy, dignity, and confidentiality at all times.
What we expect from you
- You may be asked to leave the bedside or bay temporarily to allow care, ward rounds, physiotherapy, or emergencies to take place. Please support staff by responding promptly to these requests.
Rest and recovery
What you can expect from us
We aim to create a calm and restful environment to support patients’ recovery.
What we expect from you
- A maximum of two visitors per bed space at any one time.
- Please use chairs provided and do not sit on patients’ beds.
- Help maintain a quiet environment and respect other patients by keeping noise levels low.
Safety
What you can expect from us
We are committed to keeping patients, staff, and visitors safe at all times.
What we expect from you
- Please avoid distracting staff during medication rounds to reduce the risk of errors.
- Do not film or photograph staff or other patients.
- Only bring essential items into hospital and avoid bringing valuables.
- Our sites are smoke-free, so please smoke off-site if needed.