St Oswald's Hospital Visiting Times 2025

St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times can be a bit unclear if you’re planning to see a loved one and aren’t sure when you’re allowed to drop by.

Have you ever arrived at hospital only to be turned away because visiting hours had changed?

St Oswald’s Hospital Visiting Times

St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times are essential to understand if you’re planning to see a friend or family member. These times are designed to maintain a calm healing environment while allowing loved ones to stay connected and offer support.

Following these visiting guidelines ensures that patients receive both medical care and emotional encouragement without unnecessary disruption.

Standard Visiting Hours

For most wards, the St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times are structured to allow flexibility while respecting patients’ rest and care schedules. Visitors are advised to check specific ward protocols, but general access is available as follows:

General Wards: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
Reception Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Walk-in Services (Minor Injuries Unit): 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Weekends and Bank Holidays)

These hours help regulate patient flow and visitor activity. Please be aware that access to certain wards might require prior permission or an escort, particularly in specialised units.

Special Considerations

There are several situations where visiting times at St Oswald’s Hospital are modified or regulated further. Visitors must take note of these to avoid potential access issues.

Protected Mealtimes: Visitors are kindly asked to avoid attending during lunch and dinner hours, typically from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This ensures that patients receive proper nutrition without interruption, a practice encouraged across UK hospitals for better recovery outcomes.
Quiet Hours: The hospital implements quiet hours especially after 8:00 PM to maintain a restful atmosphere. During these periods, lighting may be dimmed, and noise kept to a minimum. If emergency visits are required, coordination with nursing staff is essential.
Children Visiting: Children under 12 are advised to visit only with adult supervision, especially in sensitive areas like rehabilitation wards or during flu seasons.
Number of Visitors: A maximum of two visitors per patient is usually allowed at any one time. This helps to maintain a calm and uncrowded environment within the wards.

In line with these considerations, respecting the hospital’s arrangements ensures that both patients and staff benefit from a safe, supportive, and healing space.

Visiting Specific Departments and Wards at St Oswald’s Hospital

Understanding the St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times by department is essential to avoid confusion and ensure your visit goes smoothly.

Each unit may have specific protocols depending on the nature of care and the vulnerability of patients. Below is a detailed breakdown for different departments and their expectations for visitors.

Okeover Ward (Rehabilitation Nursing Unit)

The Okeover Ward at St Oswald’s Hospital specialises in rehabilitation and post-acute care. Given the sensitive nature of treatment and the need for routine, the visiting policy is slightly more structured.

Standard Visiting Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily.
Maximum Number of Visitors: 2 people per patient at a time.
Age Restrictions: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and may be restricted during flu season or infectious outbreaks.

Visitors are encouraged to maintain low noise levels and avoid bringing food unless previously arranged with nursing staff. It’s also advisable to check with the ward if any therapy sessions are scheduled during your intended visiting time, as some patients may be unavailable.

Outpatient Services and Accompanied Visits

Although outpatient clinics primarily involve quick appointments, there may be occasions where patients benefit from having a companion.

Appointments Schedule: Varies by department. Check appointment letters or call the hospital reception.
Visitor Policy: One support person is typically allowed to accompany the patient, especially if assistance is required due to mobility or comprehension issues.

For procedures involving sensitive topics such as oncology, endoscopy, or mental health consultations, patients are often allowed a companion for emotional support. However, some departments may limit the presence of additional persons due to space constraints or confidentiality.

Try Reading: Leicester Royal Infirmary Hospital Visiting Times

Health and Safety Protocols for Visitors at St Oswald’s Hospital

For everyone’s well-being, visitors are expected to follow the health and safety measures that align with the official St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times.

These protocols are in place to protect patients, staff, and guests, especially in situations involving infectious diseases or vulnerable individuals in care.

COVID-19 Precautions and Infection Control

While the worst of the pandemic may be behind us, certain precautions remain in effect at St Oswald’s Hospital. These safety standards are reviewed regularly in accordance with NHS guidelines and infection prevention policies.

Visitors must be aware of the following:

If you feel unwell, particularly with cold, flu, or COVID-like symptoms, please postpone your visit until you are fully recovered. Even mild symptoms can put vulnerable patients at risk.
Face coverings may still be required in designated zones, especially respiratory units or treatment areas. Masks are available at entry points or ward receptions.
Hand hygiene is critical. Please sanitise your hands when entering and leaving the ward. Alcohol-based sanitiser stations are placed throughout the hospital for easy access.

Social distancing is encouraged in communal areas such as waiting rooms and corridors. Staff may advise you on where to sit or stand to minimise contact, particularly during busier periods.

General Visitor Etiquette and Cleanliness

In addition to formal policies, visitors are expected to uphold general standards of hygiene and behaviour to help create a clean and supportive environment for healing.

Here are a few practical reminders:

Wash hands thoroughly after using the restroom or handling personal items.
Avoid bringing food or flowers unless approved by the ward.
Do not sit on patient beds, and refrain from handling hospital equipment.
Dispose of rubbish in designated bins to maintain cleanliness.
Follow all signage and staff instructions without exception.

It is also important to note that ward managers may modify visiting conditions based on individual patient care needs. These guidelines are not only for infection control, but also to enhance the comfort and dignity of patients.

Please Read: Arnold Lodge Leicester Hospital Visiting Times

Planning Your Visit to St Oswald’s Hospital

Preparing ahead can make your visit much smoother, especially when you’re aligning your schedule with the official St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times.

From transport to parking and nearby amenities, having the right information helps avoid unnecessary stress and ensures a supportive presence for the patient.

Hospital Location and Contact Information

St Oswald’s Hospital is located in a quiet area of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, making it accessible for both local and out-of-town visitors. Before heading out, it’s a good idea to confirm ward-specific St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times or any temporary changes.

Essential Contact Details:

Address: Clifton Road, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 1DR
Main Hospital Switchboard: 01335 230 000
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS): 01283 511 511 ext. 3110 / 3182
Visiting Enquiries: Often directed through reception or individual ward extensions

Visitors are encouraged to call ahead, particularly during public holidays or flu seasons when St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times may be adjusted.

Transportation and Parking Options

Getting to the hospital is straightforward, but being aware of your options can make the experience more convenient. Whether you’re driving or using public transport, the hospital offers accessible entry.

By Car:
- Access via the A515, with clear signage toward the hospital.
- On-site car parking is available, including designated disabled bays for Blue Badge holders.
- No overnight parking without special authorisation.
By Bus:
- Regular bus routes serve Clifton Road, with stops just outside the hospital entrance.
- Local services include the 108, X1, and Swift, offering links to surrounding towns and villages.
By Train:
- The nearest station is Uttoxeter, approximately 12.6 miles away.
- Taxis are available from the station; it’s advisable to book in advance.

Make sure to factor in travel time when planning around St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times, especially if you have limited access to transport or are coordinating with other visitors.

Nearby Amenities and Facilities

While visiting, you may wish to take a short break or pick up something nearby. St Oswald’s Hospital is conveniently located within walking distance of Ashbourne’s town centre.

Shops and cafés: Available nearby for snacks or refreshments.
Public toilets: Located within hospital grounds, clearly signposted.
Baby changing facilities: Available in visitor restrooms.
Waiting areas: Comfortable and accessible, with reading materials and vending machines.

Should you need extended support services, such as pastoral care or translation assistance, ask a member of staff or reception for referral.

St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times are designed to ensure patients receive the care they need while staying connected with loved ones.

Following the correct hours and safety guidelines helps make each visit meaningful and stress-free.

St Oswald’s Hospital visiting times also vary slightly depending on departments, so planning ahead is always a wise move.

Feel free to share this guide with friends or family who may find it useful, leave your thoughts or questions in the comments, and don’t forget to explore other visiting hour updates across the UK on www.ourvisitinghours.com.

St Oswald’s Hospital Visiting Times 2025