The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) will launch its new visitors’ charter, with new visiting times, on Monday 17 June.
The charter outlines a clear and consistent approach to when visitors can visit the ward areas, what is expected of them and how ward staff will also help and support.
Having introduced extended visiting hours from 9am to 8pm over a year ago (January 2023) PAHT sought feedback from both patients and staff. Both groups welcomed extended visiting arrangements, but some patients said they would prefer more quiet/private time during their stay in hospital; and staff advised it would be beneficial to have more time to provide direct clinical care in the morning.
Under the new visitors’ charter the extended visiting hours will now run from 11am to 8pm. There are no restrictions for people visiting patients at the end of life or where assistance is needed for communication purposes such as learning disabilities, dementia and mental health. Separate arrangements are also in place on the maternity wards, and patients will be informed of those when admitted.
Most wards are able to accommodate two visitors at a time, some are only able to accommodate one due to space restrictions. Children under the age of 12 can only visit with the agreement of the nurse in charge. The new arrangements can be flexible and patients can speak to ward managers to discuss their personal circumstances to ensure their visiting needs are met.
Sharon McNally, chief nurse and deputy chief executive said: “We recognise the important role that family, friends and carers play to support patients staying in hospital with their care and recovery.
“Extended visiting hours were introduced last year, and having taken on-board the feedback from patients that they would prefer some more private time, and that clinical colleagues would benefit from more time to provide direct clinical care in the morning, we took the decision to start visiting hours a little later, at 11am.
“The new charter outlines what is expected of both our visitors and our people. By working together, we can all help to improve the experience and care of our patients.”
Visit the website to find out visiting arrangements for each ward here >
You can find out more about the visitors’ charter here >