Visiting times extended at Bassetlaw Hospital

Staff at the hospitals trust showing the new visiting times, which will run to 8 pm.

In some wards, the hours will be increased to 12 hours a day, from 8 am to 8 pm, while other departments, including all adult in-patient wards, will adopt visiting times of from 11 am to 8 pm.

A statement by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Trust, which runs the hospital, said: “Local people told us that restricted visiting times made them feel unsure about their role within a loved one’s care and treatment.

“By increasing access, many believed they would be able to be more actively involved, supporting staff. They could also empower patients in recovery, making them more comfortable during a prolonged stay.

“As an organisation, it’s important we always look to engage, listen and learn from those within our care, as well as those indirectly affected. This is just one more example of putting this into positive action.

“We look forward to welcoming our patients’ friends, family and loved ones at times that better suit their wishes.”

The new times apply to all hospitals within the trust. Most wards, except maternity and the department of critical care, will be open to visitors from 11 am to 8 pm.

Gastroenterology and respiratory wards will adopt visiting hours of 8 am to 8 pm, while elderly care wards and the paediatrics department will retain open access at any hour.

More than 1,100 people took part in the survey, with 53 per cent asking for an extension to visiting times.

One participant said: “Visitors should be able to support their loved ones when they are at their most vulnerable.

Another said: “I want to be more involved when my relative is in hospital, and I need to know what to expect when they come home.”

Patients who are concerned about extended visiting times can complete a ‘This Is Me’ cocument which guides staff to an individual’s likes, dislikes and preferences for when they are visited.

For many years, certain hospital wards have supported open-access at all times for carers of patients with dementia, as part of ‘John’s Campaign’.