Norfolk and Norwich Hospital visiting times currently run from 10am to 8pm daily for most adult wards, with specific hours for maternity, stroke, and oncology units.
Visitors are generally limited to two people per bedside, and those with a Carer’s Passport may access extended times where appropriate.
Planning a hospital visit can feel overwhelming especially when each ward follows its own set of rules. Whether you’re visiting a loved one on the Mulbarton oncology ward, supporting a partner in maternity, or navigating NICU access, knowing the exact visiting hours and policies ahead of time can save stress and confusion.
This guide provides clear, up-to-date information on visiting times across Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH), including specialist wards, parking details, and health guidelines. Let’s help you plan your visit with confidence and care.
Norfolk And Norwich Hospital Visiting Times
If you’re planning a visit to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH), it’s helpful to know that most adult inpatient wards now follow a standard open visiting time from 10am to 8pm every day.
This expanded schedule is designed to improve patient wellbeing and enable more flexible support from loved ones throughout recovery.
Two Visitors Per Bedside
NNUH allows a maximum of two visitors per bedside at any given time. This ensures space for both clinical care and patient comfort. While visits are unrestricted during the day, it’s important to avoid disrupting ward routines, especially during medication rounds or when doctors are reviewing patients.
When Not to Visit
To protect vulnerable patients, NNUH asks visitors not to attend if they’ve experienced cold or flu symptoms, or suffered vomiting/diarrhoea within the last 48 hours. Visitors should always use the provided hand sanitiser stations on entry and exit, and speak to a nurse before bringing children.
Carer’s Passport and Flexible Access
If you’re a recognised carer, you can request a Norfolk Carer’s Passport or an NNUH Carer’s Contract, allowing you more flexibility to visit outside the standard hours.
This includes staying longer, assisting with meals, and supporting patients with dementia or learning disabilities. You should speak directly to the ward team to discuss arrangements.
By following these core policies, you can help maintain a safe, supportive hospital environment for all patients, visitors, and staff.
Ward-Specific Visiting Times
While general visiting hours apply across most of the hospital, certain specialist wards at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital follow their own tailored schedules. These reflect the unique needs of patients, clinical routines, and infection control requirements.
Mulbarton Ward (Oncology and Haematology)
Mulbarton Ward, which specialises in oncology and haematology care, allows visits between 11am and 9pm daily. This extended window offers greater flexibility for those supporting patients through cancer treatment, chemotherapy, and recovery.
Mealtime Restrictions
Visitors are not permitted during protected mealtimes, which run from 12:00 to 12:30pm and again from 5:00 to 5:30pm.
These quiet intervals are essential for ensuring patients receive proper nutrition without distraction. If you need to assist a loved one with meals, arrangements can be made in advance with the ward manager.
Additional Visitor Rules
Due to the heightened risk of infection for oncology patients, some added restrictions apply:
- No visitors under the age of 12 (unless agreed by staff).
- No fresh flowers or plants are allowed on the ward.
- Visitors must wash their hands thoroughly before entering and after leaving.
- A maximum of two visitors per patient is strictly enforced to preserve a calm healing environment.
Mulbarton Ward also encourages visitors to avoid bringing strong perfumes, as some patients may have sensitivity due to their treatment.
By observing these rules, friends and family can offer meaningful support while maintaining the safety and dignity of those receiving care.
Dunston Ward (Stroke Unit)
Dunston Ward at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital specialises in stroke recovery and neurological rehabilitation. To support structured therapy and rest, visiting is limited to two daily sessions:
- Afternoon: 2:00pm – 4:00pm
- Evening: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
These times help ensure patients can fully engage in rehabilitation therapies while still receiving family support during key emotional and recovery moments.
Visitor Limit and Considerations
Like other wards, Dunston allows two visitors per bedside. Visitors are asked to arrive at the beginning of the time slot and respect boundaries, especially during physiotherapy sessions or when speech and language therapies are underway.
Accessibility and Entry Points
Dunston Ward is located in the Inpatients West and Inpatients Centre sections of the hospital. It is wheelchair accessible, and nearby Blue Badge bays are available. If you are driving, look for car parks B and C for the shortest walk to the entrance.
Patients in stroke recovery may become easily fatigued or overwhelmed by sensory input. Visitors are encouraged to:
- Keep voices low and visits brief if the patient appears tired.
- Avoid bringing large groups or children unless pre-approved.
- Check with nurses before offering food or drink.
These practices help maintain a calm and recovery-focused environment for stroke patients on Dunston Ward.
Children’s Emergency and Assessment Units
For parents or guardians visiting children in emergency care at NNUH specifically on Coltishall Ward (Children’s Emergency Department and Assessment Unit) there are important rules in place to balance family support with safety and space constraints.
Adult Visitors
Each child may be accompanied by up to two adults at the bedside at any time. This usually includes parents or legal guardians. Having both caregivers present can help ease stress for the child and aid communication with the clinical team.
Sibling Restrictions
To reduce infection risk and minimise overcrowding, siblings are generally not allowed in emergency and assessment areas. Exceptions may be made under special circumstances, but prior approval from ward staff is required. If a sibling does attend, they must be fully well and supervised at all times.
Practical Tips
- Bring any essential medication or allergy information for the child.
- Avoid coming if you are unwell or have symptoms of a contagious illness.
- Use hand sanitiser stations before and after contact.
- Be prepared for potential waiting times, especially during peak hours.
By adhering to these visitor rules, families can help ensure a safe, efficient, and child-centred emergency care environment.
Maternity and Neonatal Visiting Policies
Visiting at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital’s maternity and neonatal units is designed to support parents and families during an important and often emotional time, while also safeguarding patient care and privacy.
Maternity Unit and Delivery Suite
The maternity wards have tailored visiting rules to balance the comfort of new mothers with the need for rest and clinical care.
- Birth partners are welcome throughout labour and delivery, with up to two birth partners allowed during labour.
- After birth, visiting hours for family and friends are 3pm to 6pm daily. This time frame allows mothers to rest during the quieter parts of the day.
- A quiet time is enforced from 1pm to 3pm, during which no visitors are permitted, helping mothers to recover and bond with their newborns.
- For overnight stays, only one birth partner is allowed to remain on the ward.
- If a birth partner leaves the ward after 9:30pm, they are not permitted to re-enter until 7:30am the following day, except for visiting infants in NICU.
These policies help ensure mothers receive uninterrupted care and rest while still feeling supported by their loved ones.
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
The NICU operates a flexible visiting policy to support the emotional needs of parents and families caring for premature or critically ill babies.
- Parents have open, 24-hour access to their babies in the NICU.
- Other family members may visit daily between 4pm and 6pm, with a limit of two visitors at the bedside.
- Siblings can visit, but only by prior arrangement with NICU staff to ensure the health and safety of all babies in the unit.
This welcoming approach recognises the critical role family support plays in neonatal care and bonding.
Visitor Guidelines and COVID Considerations
Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of patients, staff, and visitors is paramount at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. To this end, several guidelines and precautions are in place.
Illness Policy
Visitors should not attend the hospital if they are unwell, especially if experiencing symptoms such as cough, fever, cold, flu, or gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhoea) within the last 48 hours. This helps reduce the risk of spreading infections to vulnerable patients.
Visiting with Children
Children may visit adult wards only if approved by ward staff. This is to protect both children and patients from unnecessary exposure to infections. Generally, children under 12 are restricted from sensitive wards like Mulbarton (oncology).
COVID-19 and Respiratory Precautions
Although strict COVID-19 restrictions have eased, NNUH continues to follow NHS and government guidance:
- Visitors may be asked to wear face masks in certain clinical areas, particularly if there is a respiratory outbreak.
- Hand hygiene remains a top priority, with sanitisers widely available at entrances and on wards.
- Any changes to visiting rules due to infection outbreaks will be communicated promptly by hospital staff and through official channels.
Outbreak Situations
During periods of norovirus or other infectious outbreaks, visiting hours may be further restricted or suspended on affected wards. Visitors are advised to check with the ward or hospital website for the latest updates before planning their visit.
By following these guidelines, visitors help maintain a safe environment that supports patient recovery and staff effectiveness.
Parking and Accessibility at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital
Visiting Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is made easier with several parking and accessibility options, though it’s helpful to plan ahead due to limited on-site parking spaces.
Parking Facilities
- Blue Badge holders can park for free on site. Visitors should validate their parking at the ward or reception desk.
- The hospital has several designated car parks:
- For Mulbarton Ward (Oncology) visitors, car parks J, K, and L near the Colney Centre entrance are the closest options.
- For Dunston Ward (Stroke Unit), parking is available at the Inpatients West and Centre car parks, with nearby Blue Badge bays and pedestrian ramps.
- Due to high demand, public parking spaces can fill quickly during peak hours. Consider car-sharing or public transport where possible.
Accessibility
- All wards have wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts, and facilities.
- Assistance is available for those with mobility impairments, and hospital staff can guide visitors on the best access routes.
- For detailed accessibility maps and guidance, visitors can consult the NNUH website or contact the hospital’s Patient Experience Team.
Public Transport
Norwich is well-served by buses and taxis, which stop near the hospital’s main entrances. Planning your journey ahead can reduce parking stress and make your visit smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the visiting hours at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital?
Most adult wards at NNUH have open visiting from 10am to 8pm daily, with specialist wards like Mulbarton and Dunston having specific hours. Maternity and NICU have separate visiting policies.
2. Can children visit patients at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital?
Children under 12 are generally restricted on sensitive wards such as oncology and haematology. In emergency departments, siblings may only visit under special circumstances with staff approval. Always check with the ward before bringing children.
3. How do I get a Carer’s Passport for flexible visiting?
The Carer’s Passport is issued by Norfolk County Council or the hospital to recognised carers, allowing extended visiting hours and support access. Contact the hospital ward or your local council to apply.
Conclusion
In summary, Norfolk and Norwich Hospital visiting times offer a welcoming and flexible approach for most adult wards, with general visiting hours from 10am to 8pm daily.
Specialist wards such as Mulbarton (oncology), Dunston (stroke), and maternity units maintain specific visiting schedules to prioritise patient care and recovery.
By understanding these visiting hours and guidelines including illness precautions, Carer’s Passport options, and parking details you can plan your visit smoothly and support your loved ones with confidence.
Remember to always check with the ward before visiting, especially during illness outbreaks or for sensitive units. For further information, consider bookmarking this guide and sharing it with family and friends preparing to visit NNUH.
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