Durham Hospital Visiting Times – Planning your visit to Durham hospitals and unsure about the visiting times? The rules surrounding Durham Hospital visiting times can vary depending on the ward, and knowing these specifics beforehand can help ensure a smooth visit. Whether you’re visiting loved ones in a general ward or a specialist unit, being aware of the latest updates is crucial.
Visiting times have largely returned to pre-pandemic schedules, but Durham Hospital visiting times may still be subject to restrictions due to COVID-19 or other health protocols. This makes it important to understand how these rules may impact your ability to see patients.
Ensuring you’re fully informed on the Durham Hospital visiting times can save you from the disappointment of a wasted journey. In some cases, visitors must book in advance, while others may have special hours based on the ward or patient condition.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of visiting hours, booking procedures, and specific guidelines for maternity, neonatal, paediatric, and end-of-life care wards, ensuring that your hospital visit is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Durham Hospital Visiting Times
The visiting hours for hospitals in Durham, including University Hospital of North Durham and Darlington Memorial Hospital, have largely returned to pre-pandemic schedules.
Visitors are encouraged to check specific times before planning their visit, as some wards may still enforce different policies depending on patient needs or health and safety protocols.
Regular Visiting Times Across Durham Hospitals
Most general wards in Durham hospitals allow visitors during designated hours each day. Typically, visitors can spend up to two hours with patients, with the time often split into two one-hour slots.
This schedule is designed to ensure that patients have sufficient rest and that all visitors have a fair opportunity to spend time with their loved ones.
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Please note that these hours can vary by hospital or ward, so it’s essential to confirm the schedule by contacting the hospital directly before visiting.
Other United Kingdom Hospital Visiting Hours:
Visiting Time Restrictions Due to COVID-19
Although most hospitals have returned to their regular visiting hours, some restrictions remain in place due to COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.
Certain wards may limit the number of visitors or enforce stricter hygiene measures, such as mandatory mask-wearing and the use of hand sanitiser.
- COVID-19 wards: No visitors are allowed unless under exceptional circumstances, such as end-of-life care.
- Non-COVID wards: Visitors must adhere to the appointment system to limit overcrowding and ensure social distancing.
Visitors should also be prepared to show proof of recent vaccination or a negative lateral flow test upon request.
How to Book a Visit in Advance
For some wards, particularly those dealing with vulnerable patients, visitors must book their slots in advance. Here’s how to do it:
- Contact the Ward Clerk: Call the ward directly using the main hospital switchboard to book your visit.
- Provide Information: Be ready to give your name, the patient’s details, and preferred visiting times.
- Receive Confirmation: The ward will confirm your booking time and any additional requirements (such as wearing a mask or taking a lateral flow test).
- Arrive on Time: Ensure you arrive promptly for your booked slot, as delays can disrupt the hospital’s visiting schedule.
Special Visiting Hours for Different Wards
Certain hospital wards have different visiting hours to accommodate the specific needs of their patients. These include maternity, paediatrics, and end-of-life care units, which often have more flexible visiting arrangements.
Maternity and Neonatal Visiting Hours
In the maternity wards, visiting hours are typically more lenient to allow for the presence of a partner during labour and postnatal recovery. Birthing partners are often allowed to stay throughout the labour process, and postnatal visiting slots are offered for family time.
- Labour Wards: One or two birthing partners can remain during the entire labour process.
- Postnatal Wards: Family visits are allowed during specific hours—typically 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Neonatal Units: Parents can visit their newborns almost anytime, but only one other visitor is allowed to accompany them at a time.
Visiting Times for Paediatric Wards
Paediatric wards at Durham hospitals prioritise the presence of parents or guardians. In most cases, one parent is permitted to stay with their child at all times, ensuring constant support. Other visitors, such as siblings or close family members, are allowed during specified times.
- Parent Presence: One parent or guardian can stay 24/7.
- Additional Visitors: Visiting hours for other family members are generally between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, though these may vary.
End-of-Life Care Visitor Policies
For patients receiving end-of-life care, visitor restrictions are relaxed to allow family members to spend more time with their loved ones.
Visiting times are often extended or adjusted based on the patient’s needs and the family’s availability. The ward manager will coordinate visits, keeping both compassion and safety in mind.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Hospital Visitors
Durham hospitals enforce several health and safety measures to protect both patients and visitors. Following these guidelines helps maintain a clean, safe environment.
Infection Control Measures
Infection control is a top priority in healthcare settings. All visitors are required to:
- Sanitise their hands when entering and leaving hospital wards.
- Wear face masks in clinical areas and enclosed spaces.
- Avoid sitting on beds to minimise contamination risks.
Hand sanitiser stations are available throughout the hospital, and visitors should use them frequently to reduce the spread of germs.
Restrictions for Visitors with Illness Symptoms
If you or someone in your household has symptoms of an illness, it is vital to avoid visiting the hospital to protect patients, many of whom have compromised immune systems. Visitors are advised to stay home until they have been symptom-free for at least 72 hours.
Common symptoms to watch for include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough or sore throat
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
Facilities Available for Hospital Visitors
In addition to ensuring smooth and timely visits, Durham hospitals also offer a range of facilities to make your time on-site more comfortable.
Parking and Access
Most hospitals in Durham provide ample parking spaces for visitors. Parking fees typically apply, but there may be concessions for frequent visitors or those with long-term patients.
- Parking Fees: £1.50 for the first hour, £5.00 for the day.
- Accessible Parking: Available near all major entrances, with designated spaces for Blue Badge holders.
Check the hospital’s website for detailed parking maps and guidance.
Refreshments for Visitors
To make visits more comfortable, hospitals offer on-site cafes and vending machines. These facilities are generally open during visiting hours and provide a range of snacks, beverages, and light meals.
- Café Opening Hours: Typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Vending Machines: Available 24/7 in main waiting areas and near ward entrances.
Location: Google Maps
Whether you’re visiting for an hour or planning a longer stay, these services ensure that you have access to food and drink.
Understanding Durham Hospital visiting times ensures that your visit goes smoothly, whether you’re visiting during regular hours or booking a time in advance for a specialised ward.
Being informed about the specific guidelines for different units, from maternity to end-of-life care, helps make your hospital experience as stress-free as possible.
Before your next visit, make sure to check the most up-to-date Durham Hospital visiting times and follow any required health and safety protocols. For more information or to book a visit, contact the hospital directly, and ensure you’re prepared for a smooth and safe visit.