Bolton Hospital visiting times follow an open visiting policy at Royal Bolton Hospital, giving families and friends greater flexibility when supporting loved ones.
Some departments, such as maternity, paediatrics, and dementia care, have their own arrangements to ensure patient comfort and safety.
For anyone planning a visit, it’s important to check ward-specific rules in advance, as visiting outside the recommended hours may require agreement with staff.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Bolton Hospital visiting times, ward policies, and practical tips to help you plan your visit to Royal Bolton Hospital.
General Bolton Hospital Visiting Times
Royal Bolton Hospital operates an open visiting policy, meaning there are no rigid restrictions on when you can visit a patient. This approach allows family members, friends, and carers the flexibility to provide support at times that suit both the patient and the visitor.
Although visiting is open, Bolton Hospital visiting times between 10 am and 7 pm. These hours ensure patients get adequate rest while still enabling meaningful visits.
If you need to attend outside these hours for example, due to work commitments staff can make arrangements on a case-by-case basis.
Open visiting reflects the hospital’s commitment to patient-centred care. The flexibility allows families to be more involved in recovery and daily routines, particularly for patients with additional needs.
Always speak to the ward team in advance if you plan to visit at unsociable times, as they can provide guidance and make necessary adjustments.
Ward-Specific Bolton Hospital Visiting Times
While general visiting is flexible, some areas of Royal Bolton Hospital have special arrangements tailored to the needs of different patients.
Maternity Wards
Visitors to the maternity wards are welcomed between 9 am and 9 pm, with up to two adults allowed during these hours. This ensures mothers and newborns receive essential rest while still enabling close family involvement.
Fathers, partners, and birth companions are encouraged to spend as much time as possible with the mother and baby. If you need to visit outside these times such as during emergencies or for support—please contact the ward directly, as staff can approve exceptions.
Paediatric Ward (Ward E5)
For children admitted to Ward E5, parents and guardians enjoy unrestricted visiting and can stay with their child at any time of day. One parent or guardian is also permitted to stay overnight, ensuring continuity of care and comfort.
Other family members and friends may visit between 8 am and 8 pm. To avoid overcrowding, no more than two visitors at the bedside are allowed at one time. Siblings are welcome, provided visits do not disrupt the child’s rest or medical care.
Dementia Care John’s Campaign
Royal Bolton Hospital supports John’s Campaign, which allows family carers of patients with dementia to have open visiting access. Carers can be present during the day, in the evening, and even overnight if required.
This approach recognises the importance of familiar faces in helping dementia patients feel settled and supported. Carers may also assist with personal routines such as meals or mobility, working alongside staff.
Patients with Learning Disabilities
Visiting is unrestricted for patients with learning disabilities. Family members and carers are encouraged to remain closely involved, particularly during mealtimes and daily routines.
The hospital promotes partnership care, recognising that familiar carers often understand patients’ needs best and can help ensure smooth communication with staff.
Beech Ward Mental Health Unit
Beech Ward, part of the hospital’s mental health services, operates more structured visiting times:
- Weekdays: 16:00–17:30 and 18:30–20:30
- Weekends: 14:00–17:30 and 18:30–20:30
- Protected Mealtimes: 17:30–18:30
This schedule balances visiting access with therapy sessions, rest, and structured patient care. Always confirm timings with the ward in advance, as policies may change based on individual needs.
Visiting During Mealtimes
Until recently, visitors were asked to leave wards during patient mealtimes. However, from February, this restriction has been lifted. Families and carers are now welcome to stay with patients during meals, offering companionship and assistance when needed.
This change reflects the Trust’s recognition that shared meals can provide comfort and encourage better nutrition. Carers supporting patients with dementia, learning disabilities, or additional needs are especially encouraged to stay during meals.
Rules and Guidelines for Visitors
To ensure visits remain safe and supportive, Royal Bolton Hospital has a few important visitor guidelines:
- Number of visitors: Most wards limit bedside visits to two people at a time.
- Hygiene: Wash hands or use sanitiser before entering and leaving wards. Visitors should avoid coming if unwell.
- Quiet environment: Keep noise levels low and switch phones to silent.
- Children visiting: Young visitors are welcome but must be supervised at all times.
- Parking: On-site parking is available but can be busy. Arrive early to allow time to find a space.
- Respect staff requests: Occasionally, staff may ask visitors to step out for medical procedures or patient privacy.
By following these guidelines, you help create a calm and healing environment for patients.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Planning ahead ensures your visit runs smoothly:
- Confirm ward arrangements: Contact the ward before attending, especially if visiting outside standard hours.
- Arrive prepared: Bring only essentials—large bags and flowers may not be allowed.
- Allow extra time for parking: The hospital is busy, particularly at peak times.
- Stay informed: NHS Trust websites and ward staff provide the most up-to-date visiting guidance.
- Be flexible: Sometimes visiting may need adjusting around treatment, therapy, or patient rest.
A well-planned visit helps reduce stress and allows you to focus on spending quality time with your loved one.
FAQ Bolton Hospital Visiting Times
What Are the Visiting Times at Bolton Hospital?
Royal Bolton Hospital has an open visiting policy, with recommended hours between 10 am and 7 pm. Certain wards, such as maternity, paediatrics, and mental health units, have their own arrangements.
Can Children Visit Patients at Royal Bolton Hospital?
Yes, children are welcome but must be supervised. Some wards, like paediatrics, place limits on the number of visitors at a bedside at one time.
Are Visitors Allowed to Stay Overnight?
Yes, in certain cases. Parents of paediatric patients, carers of dementia patients, and those supporting individuals with learning disabilities may stay overnight with agreement from staff.
Conclusion
Royal Bolton Hospital’s open visiting policy provides families and carers with the flexibility to support patients in a way that best suits their needs. While the hospital recommends visiting between 10 am and 7 pm, exceptions can be made, and some wards have their own arrangements to balance care, rest, and treatment.
Special provisions, such as overnight stays for parents, dementia carers, and learning disability support, highlight the Trust’s patient-centred approach. With the recent update allowing visitors to remain during mealtimes, the hospital has made visits even more inclusive and supportive.
If you are planning a visit, it is always best to check directly with the ward for the latest guidance. By preparing ahead, you can ensure your time with your loved one is meaningful, comfortable, and stress-free.
Looking to visit other hospitals nearby? Explore www.hospitalvisittimes.com full guides.
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