Visiting
Information about visiting Garden House Hospice Care.
We know that visiting a hospice for the first time can be a daunting experience and you may have lots of questions. Please use this page to find out more about visiting for outpatient appointments, or visiting family, friends or loved ones. We have also put together frequently asked questions, which may contain further information you require, or you can contact us to find out more.
Visiting the Inpatient Unit
If you are visiting a family member or friend on the Inpatient Unit at Garden House Hospice Care, this does not need to be prebooked, but you will be asked to sign in on arrival. Visitors are welcome any time of day or night. Our reception will be open and manned Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 4.30pm; you will need to use the buzzer for entry at other times. You are also welcome to bring pets to the Inpatient Unit, by prior arrangement with the senior nurse on duty.
Face masks are not routinely required, however there may be times when you will be requested to wear one - staff will discuss this with you if required. If worn, please remove and dispose of your mask in the clinical waste bin provided at the exit.
Facilities on-site include:
- A lounge where you can relax, watch TV or read a book
- Toys available for children
- Tea and coffee making facilities for you to use. We are also visited every week day by a local coffee van
- Hot meals (if ordered at reception before 10.00am)
- The Valerian Room - a family room including a shower for people wishing to stay overnight
- Disabled toilets and baby changing facilities
- Beautiful gardens open for all visitors and plenty of access to the outside
- Free Wi-Fi should you wish to work while visiting your loved one - we could even find you some quiet working space, or you can hot desk in one of our offices. You will be well looked after!
Additional guidance
At Garden House Hospice Care, we continue to regularly review our visiting guidelines to support the needs and safety of patients, visitors, and staff in line with Government and Hospice UK guidance. Please note this guidance may be subject to change at short notice in accordance with updated Government guidelines and the needs of Garden House Hospice Care.
We request you do not visit or attend the Hospice for an appointment or group if you have any symptoms of Covid-19, or if you are feeling unwell. Some symptoms may be very similar to the common cold such as a sore throat, raised temperature and headache.
For all visitors, including those attending outpatient appointments and clinics, please continue to wash your hands and use hand sanitisers provided, and read and follow the notices around the Hospice.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak to the nurse in charge. Thank you for your understanding.
Liz Kennedy, Director of Nursing and Quality
Sarah Bell, Medical Director
Last updated: 19/06/23
Last reviewed: 13/06/23