Welcome to our ward. Please accept our apologies that a bed is not available for you presently. We will endeavour to keep you as comfortable as possible whilst waiting for a bed, and below is some information about what you can expect during this time:

Our staff will ensure the call bell is in reach. Please press if you require assistance from the staff. If you are situated on a corridor, you will be given a small handbell, please use this if you require any assistance whilst in this area.

Staff will advise you which patient bathroom to use. These bathroom areas will have a toilet, sink and a shower for you to freshen up. If you require any toiletries, please let the staff who are looking after you know.

Our staff can provide you with some night wear and slipper socks if needed. We also have available ‘patient care packs’ which consist of a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, ear plugs and an eye mask – please let us know if you would like a pack.

Unless there is a reason why you cannot eat or drink you will be provided with a drink and something to eat on your arrival.

The ward staff (generally the Housekeeper) will ensure that you are included in all tea and coffee rounds, with meals available at the set meal times. If you require any further refreshments, please do ask, we’d be happy to help.

The staff will ensure you are included in medication rounds (morning, lunch, teatime, and bedtime). If you require any medicine such as pain relief at any other time, please let the staff know.

If you have a mobile phone and are struggling to obtain a signal (it can be quite difficult at times), we would be happy to contact your relatives and / or next of kin for you, or if you prefer you can use one of the ward phones.

Your family are welcome to visit, please ask the staff to confirm the visiting times in your new area. We do apologise if you are still not in a bed space at visiting time. If you have any issues, please make the ward staff aware that you would like to speak to the Ward Manager or Nurse in Charge (if the Ward Manager is not on shift).