This section provides you with information about coming into, staying in and leaving hospital, in addition to patient information.
For information about visiting times, parking, transport and maps please click here to go to the 'Our hospitals' section.
Welcome booklet
Please view the Welcome Booklet (PDF) if you are coming into the hospital.
Click here to view the Welcome Booklet as an e-book
Designed to help patients prepare for their hospital stay in advance of being admitted, it includes information on hospital parking, public transport links, visiting times, hospital food, the use of mobile phones etc.
You can also view the visitor's code, which includes visiting times and information about what you can bring into hospital.
The NHS commitment to you
When you are in hospital this is what you can expect:
- To have a clear explanation of your condition and the treatment options available to you. If you have difficulties speaking or understanding English please ask for an interpreter before your appointment. BSL Interpreters are also available when booked in advance.
- To be asked for your written permission (called ‘consent’) for any operation or certain procedures after being given all relevant information
- To have arrangements made for you to see your patient records if you want
- To be sure that the information in your records will be confidential and only seen by those delivering your care
- To be treated with respect and dignity at all times in an environment that is clean
- To get told about different aspects of your treatment and what procedures are being carried out
- To keep relatives or carers informed of your progress if you want us to.
Patient Access policy
The Patient Access policy covers how our patients will access our Outpatient, diagnostic and elective (day case and inpatient) services in accordance with the NHS Constitution.
Click here to view our Patient Access policy
Click here to read more about the NHS Constitution
Your commitment to the NHS
In return, we ask you to:
- Give us the information we need about your condition, symptoms or medication so we can provide appropriate care
- Treat our staff with the same respect you expect from them
- Let us know about any special needs you may have (for example), an interpreter
- Help, as far as possible, in feeding yourself, keeping mobile and with your personal hygiene
- Arrange for your own transport home, if possible
- Arrange with your family and friends to take care of your personal laundry, if possible
- Be considerate to other patients.
