Chesterfield Royal Hospital visiting times vary depending on the ward, but visitors are generally welcome between 10 am and 8 pm daily. Each department sets its own schedule, so it’s essential to confirm with the relevant ward before visiting.
Planning to see a loved one at Chesterfield Royal Hospital? Knowing the exact visiting hours can help you avoid long waits or being turned away.
Whether you’re heading to the Derwent Unit for mental health support, the Nightingale Ward for children’s services, or a general medical ward, understanding the hospital’s current policies ensures a smooth visit.
In this guide, you’ll find the latest ward-by-ward visiting hours, safety measures, and contact information to help you plan confidently. All information is based on current NHS and hospital guidance, ensuring it’s both accurate and reliable.
Chesterfield Royal Hospital Visiting Times
Chesterfield Royal Hospital maintains a welcoming approach for patient visitors, balancing compassion with the need for safety and operational efficiency.
While general visiting hours across the hospital typically run from 10 am to 8 pm, actual times may vary depending on the ward or clinical setting. It is strongly advised that visitors check specific ward guidelines in advance, as some areas such as maternity, ICU, or mental health units have limited or staggered access.
In keeping with NHS England policies, visitors are expected to observe basic hygiene measures. This includes using hand sanitiser on entry and exit, wearing a face mask if instructed, and avoiding visits when feeling unwell, especially with symptoms of cold, flu, or COVID-19. These measures are in place to protect vulnerable patients and healthcare staff.
Generally, no more than two visitors at a time per patient are permitted. Children may visit in some cases, but this is at the discretion of ward staff. Compassionate exceptions can sometimes be arranged for end-of-life care or in specific emotional support situations, provided they are cleared in advance.
The hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is available to answer visiting-related questions and help coordinate with specific wards if required. This ensures that every visit is as safe, smooth, and meaningful as possible for both patients and their loved ones.
Derwent Unit
The Derwent Unit at Chesterfield Royal Hospital provides specialist inpatient mental health care and has a clearly defined visiting schedule designed to support therapeutic routines while allowing meaningful family engagement.
Visiting Hours for Derwent Unit:
- Weekdays: 4 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm
- Weekends & Bank Holidays: 2:30 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm
These designated times are set to ensure that patients receive uninterrupted care and therapeutic input during the day.
Visitors are encouraged to plan visits within these slots and limit numbers to a maximum of two people at a time. This helps maintain a calm and supportive environment for all service users.
If you are unsure whether a visit is appropriate or would like to arrange an exceptional visit outside standard times such as for a care planning meeting or compassionate grounds it’s recommended to contact the ward in advance.
Visitors are reminded not to bring in restricted items and to adhere to ward safety protocols. Staff at the Derwent Unit are on hand to provide guidance and will support families in making the most of their visit while ensuring the safety and dignity of all patients.
Nightingale Ward
The Nightingale Ward at Chesterfield Royal Hospital specialises in paediatric care and provides a flexible yet structured visiting schedule to accommodate parents and carers, while also ensuring that young patients can rest and recover in a safe environment.
Visiting Hours for Nightingale Ward:
- Parents/Guardians: 8 am – 8 pm (open access)
- Other Visitors (maximum of two):
- 10 am – 12 noon
- 2 pm – 4 pm
- 6 pm – 8 pm
This tiered approach ensures that children receive essential care without excessive disruption. Parents are encouraged to stay for extended periods, and in some cases, overnight accommodation may be available depending on medical needs and ward availability.
Siblings are also welcome during designated hours, but this should be arranged in consultation with ward staff to ensure it suits the child’s condition and ward safety.
All visitors are expected to observe hygiene protocols, particularly handwashing and symptom screening, to protect vulnerable children from infections. Any toys or gifts brought should be clean and suitable for hospital use.
The ward team is approachable and supportive, often facilitating tailored visits for children with specific needs or for families requiring extra reassurance during a hospital stay.
Portland & Basil Wards
The Portland and Basil Wards at Chesterfield Royal Hospital cater to general medical patients and have, in the past, implemented modified visiting schedules in response to infection control concerns, particularly during periods of high COVID-19 transmission.
During such times, visiting was temporarily reduced to:
- 2 pm – 3 pm
- 6 pm – 7 pm
While these restricted hours are not currently enforced hospital-wide, they serve as a reminder that visiting policies on these wards may still fluctuate depending on public health guidance or ward-specific outbreaks.
If you plan to visit someone on Portland or Basil Ward, it’s highly advisable to call the ward directly beforehand. Staff will confirm the most up-to-date guidance, including any visitor limits, PPE requirements, or temporary suspensions.
In general, these wards welcome up to two visitors per patient during designated hours, with flexibility considered on compassionate or exceptional grounds. Visitors must also comply with hygiene protocols, including the use of hand sanitiser and, where appropriate, face coverings.
Ward notices or hospital social media channels, such as the official Chesterfield Royal Hospital Facebook page, often post real-time updates about temporary visitor changes, making them useful resources for planning your visit.
ICU, Maternity & Other Wards
Visiting policies for Intensive Care, Maternity, and other specialist wards at Chesterfield Royal Hospital tend to be more variable and are usually tailored to individual patient needs, treatment plans, and clinical safety.
ICU
Visiting in the ICU is often limited to short, supervised visits, typically during the late afternoon and early evening hours often around 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm in similar local trusts.
Due to the high-dependency nature of ICU care, visitors are usually limited to immediate family or next of kin. Always phone the ward in advance for confirmation and guidance.
Maternity Ward
For maternity services, visiting is generally structured as follows:
- Birth partners: Open access during labour and for extended periods postpartum.
- General visitors: Usually allowed 2 pm – 4 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, with restrictions on the number of guests and no under-16s unless siblings.
Some maternity areas, such as neonatal or special care baby units, may have stricter protocols and screening requirements. Parental presence is typically supported throughout.
Other Specialist Wards
For wards dealing with oncology, rehabilitation, or palliative care, visiting is generally arranged on a case-by-case basis. Patients undergoing complex treatments or in end-of-life care may be granted extended or flexible visiting by prior arrangement.
The hospital encourages families to contact the relevant ward directly to discuss visiting needs, compassionate exceptions, and the availability of private family space when needed.
COVID-19 & Visiting Safety Measures
Though general restrictions have eased, Chesterfield Royal Hospital continues to uphold certain safety protocols shaped by lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures aim to protect patients many of whom are immunocompromised from ongoing seasonal and infectious threats.
Current Infection Control Measures
Visitors are still strongly encouraged to:
- Sanitise hands on entry and exit from all wards and patient rooms.
- Wear face coverings in designated areas or when requested by staff.
- Avoid visiting if they have symptoms of cold, flu, COVID-19, diarrhoea, or vomiting.
These guidelines apply even if the hospital does not currently have a formal visiting restriction in place. Visitors must respect ward signage and staff instructions, as procedures can change rapidly in response to outbreaks or infection risks.
Temporary Ward Closures & Visitor Limits
During recent surges in respiratory viruses, wards such as Portland and Basil temporarily reduced visiting hours or closed to non-essential visitors. While these measures are not permanent, the hospital may reinstate them at short notice based on public health advice.
To avoid confusion or wasted journeys, it is recommended that you check with the ward directly or consult the hospital’s website and social media updates before arriving.
Maintaining these sensible precautions ensures a safer environment for all and helps limit the spread of infections within the hospital setting.
Contact Details & How to Confirm Visiting Times
While Chesterfield Royal Hospital offers a general guide to visiting, the most accurate and up-to-date information often comes directly from the individual wards. Given that visiting times may change due to staffing, infection control, or patient needs, it’s best to confirm before your visit.
How to Check Visiting Hours
- Call the Ward Directly: Each ward has a main desk that can confirm visiting times and any restrictions. You can ask for this number through the hospital switchboard at 01246 277 271.
- Use the NHS Service Finder: The Chesterfield Royal NHS profile is listed at nhs.uk with maps, facilities, and general patient support details.
- Visit the Hospital Website: Regular updates are posted on the official Chesterfield Royal Hospital website.
- Check Social Media: The hospital’s Facebook page frequently shares real-time announcements about visiting changes, restrictions, and service disruptions.
Patient Advice and Liaison Service
If you’re unsure who to contact or need help coordinating a visit, the PALS team can assist. They’re available Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, via:
- Phone: 01246 512640
- Email: [email protected]
PALS can clarify policies for different wards, offer support for special access requests, and assist in resolving any difficulties you may encounter when trying to visit.
Getting There
Chesterfield Royal Hospital is conveniently located in Calow, Chesterfield, and is accessible via car, bus, and taxi. Visitors are advised to plan ahead, especially during peak hours or when attending high-demand wards.
Car Parking
There are several on-site car parks for visitors, with pay-and-display machines and pay-on-foot options available.
Charges are applied based on time spent, though concessions may be available for long-stay visitors or carers ask at the main reception for more details. Blue Badge holders can park for free in designated spaces near main entrances.
Public Transport
The hospital is well-connected by local bus routes, with regular services from Chesterfield town centre and surrounding areas. The nearest train station is Chesterfield Station, from which the hospital is approximately a 10-minute taxi or bus ride.
Accessibility
Chesterfield Royal Hospital is fully equipped for accessibility:
- Step-free access at all major entrances
- Wheelchair hire, mobility buggy service, and family rooms
- Accessible toilets, lifts, and clear signage across wards
On-Site Facilities
Visitors can access a range of amenities including:
- A hospital café and canteen
- Pharmacy services
- Baby changing and prayer/quiet rooms
Whether you’re staying for a short visit or supporting a patient long-term, the hospital environment is designed to make your time there as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Conclusion
Visiting a loved one at Chesterfield Royal Hospital can be a comforting and meaningful experience, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
With visiting times varying by ward especially in areas like ICU, maternity, mental health, and children’s services checking ahead with the hospital is always the best approach.
The hospital maintains a caring and professional atmosphere, with safety, dignity, and family support at the heart of its policies. Whether you’re supporting a child on Nightingale Ward or visiting a relative in the Derwent Unit, understanding the specific rules, times, and safety protocols can make a real difference.
Don’t forget to call the ward directly or speak with PALS if you need clarification, compassionate access, or help planning your visit.
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