Derriford Hospital Visiting Times – Hours & Rules 2025

Derriford Hospital visiting times are essential for anyone planning to see a loved one in hospital, but do you know the latest rules and restrictions?

Whether visiting a family member, supporting a friend, or needing special access, understanding when and how you can visit helps ensure a smooth experience.

Different wards may have specific schedules, and certain guidelines must be followed to maintain patient safety and hospital efficiency.

Knowing the up-to-date Derriford Hospital visiting times allows visitors to plan ahead while respecting hospital policies.

Derriford Hospital Visiting Times

Derriford Hospital visiting times play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and structured patient visitation while maintaining patient safety and hospital efficiency. Understanding the designated visiting hours and any restrictions helps visitors plan their visits effectively and comply with patient visitation policies.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of general and specialised visiting hours, along with key regulations that visitors should be aware of.

General Visiting Times and Restrictions

Derriford Hospital visiting times vary depending on the ward type and hospital policies. While general wards follow a structured schedule, specific units may have additional restrictions to protect patients’ health and well-being.

General Visiting Hours for Most Wards:

The standard visiting hours for general wards at Derriford Hospital are:

• Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Visitors are encouraged to arrive during designated hours to avoid disruption to patient care.
• A maximum of two visitors per patient is allowed at a time.

Special Considerations for General Wards:

• Children under 12 years old are generally not permitted unless under special circumstances.
• Visitors must adhere to infection control guidelines, such as hand hygiene and mask-wearing when necessary.
• Food and drinks should not be brought into patient areas unless approved by hospital staff.

Ensuring visitors comply with these regulations helps maintain a safe and comfortable environment for both patients and healthcare providers.

Special Visiting Times for Specific Wards

Certain units at Derriford Hospital have modified visiting schedules due to the nature of care provided. These include maternity wards, paediatric units, and intensive care units (ICU).

Maternity Ward Visiting Hours:

• Partners: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (extended access for support)
• Family & Friends: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Siblings of newborns are allowed but must be supervised at all times.

Children’s Ward Visiting Policy:

• Parents/Guardians: Open visiting allowed
• Other Family & Friends: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Only two visitors per child at any time to maintain a calm environment.

ICU Visiting Hours and Guidelines:

• Visiting ICU patients is strictly controlled to ensure optimal patient recovery.
• Standard ICU hours: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (subject to change based on patient needs).
• Visits may be restricted to immediate family members only.
• Visitors must follow strict hygiene protocols, including hand washing and PPE use.

Each of these departments has special policies designed to protect vulnerable patients. Always check with the ward staff for the most up-to-date information before planning a visit.

Evening and Emergency Visits

Certain circumstances may require visits outside normal hours, particularly for urgent cases or end-of-life situations. Derriford Hospital has provisions for such scenarios, ensuring that patients receive the necessary emotional support while maintaining hospital security.

Late Evening Visits:

• Visiting outside normal hours is only permitted with prior approval from the hospital.
• Visitors should report to the main reception or contact the ward before arriving.
• Late visits may be allowed for critically ill patients or those requiring special support.

Emergency and Palliative Care Visitation:

• In end-of-life cases, family members are permitted extended access to be with their loved ones.
• Special family rooms may be available for overnight stays in palliative care situations.
• Visitors must coordinate with ward staff to arrange access and comply with hospital safety protocols.

Planning ahead and maintaining clear communication with hospital staff can help facilitate smoother after-hours or emergency visitations.

Continue: Ipswich Hospital Visiting Times

Hospital Visitor Policies at Derriford

Understanding hospital visitor rules at Derriford Hospital ensures that all visits align with hospital policy while maintaining patient safety guidelines. The hospital has established clear regulations to balance patient well-being, visitor comfort, and infection control protocols.

Compliance with these policies helps provide a safe and secure environment for patients, staff, and visitors alike.

General Hospital Visitor Rules

All visitors must follow standard hospital visitor rules to ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone.

• Visiting hours must be followed as per ward-specific guidelines.
• Visitors should check-in at reception upon arrival for verification purposes.
• No more than two visitors per patient at any given time.
• Children under 12 are generally not permitted, except in special cases.
• Hand hygiene and infection control measures must be followed at all times.
• Visitors who feel unwell or have flu-like symptoms should refrain from visiting.

These visitor regulations are enforced to protect patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems or recovering from surgery.

Patient Safety Guidelines for Visitors

To prioritise patient safety, visitors must adhere to strict safety guidelines within the hospital environment.

• Face masks may be required in certain wards, especially during flu season or outbreaks.
• Mobile phone usage is restricted in ICU, maternity, and high-dependency units to avoid interference with medical equipment.
• Bringing outside food or drinks for patients requires prior approval from hospital staff.
• Visitors must respect patient privacy and avoid taking photos or recording videos in hospital premises.

By following these patient safety guidelines, visitors contribute to a healing environment while ensuring hospital protocols are upheld.

Special Permissions and Exceptions to Hospital Policy

In specific situations, exceptions to standard hospital policies may be granted based on individual patient needs.

• Palliative care patients: Immediate family members may receive extended visiting hours.
• Critically ill patients: Close family members can arrange flexible visitation schedules.
• Maternity ward: Partners are allowed extended stay periods for support.
• Neonatal unit: Parents may have 24/7 access to their newborns.

Visitors requiring special permissions should contact the ward manager in advance to arrange alternative visiting schedules.

Banned Items and Prohibited Activities for Visitors

To ensure a safe hospital environment, visitors must avoid bringing restricted items or engaging in prohibited activities.

Prohibited items include:

• Alcohol and illicit substances
• Large balloons or flowers in high-risk wards
• Strongly scented perfumes that may trigger allergies
• Electronic devices that may interfere with medical equipment

Prohibited activities include:

• Smoking or vaping within hospital premises
• Disruptive behaviour, loud talking, or playing loud music
• Entering restricted medical areas without permission

Visitors must cooperate with hospital staff and follow all hospital policy to ensure a respectful and safe visiting experience.

See More: Torbay Hospital Visiting Times

Directions and Parking at Derriford Hospital

Finding how to get to Derriford Hospital and understanding hospital visitor parking options are essential for ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit. Whether travelling by car, public transport, or taxi, visitors have multiple options to reach the hospital efficiently.

Parking facilities are available, but it’s important to be aware of restrictions, charges, and accessibility options.

How to Get to Derriford Hospital by Car

Visitors driving to Derriford Hospital can use the following main access routes:

• From Plymouth City Centre: Take the A386 Tavistock Road towards the north. Follow the signs for Derriford Hospital.
• From the A38 (Devon Expressway): Exit at Manadon Roundabout, then take the A386 northbound.
• From Tavistock and Northern Devon: Follow the A386 southbound towards Plymouth and look for hospital signposts.

Key points to note:

• The hospital entrance is located on Derriford Road, Plymouth PL6 8DH.
• Allow extra travel time during peak hours as roads near the hospital can be congested.
• Drop-off zones are available for patient and visitor convenience.

Public Transport Options to Derriford Hospital

Visitors without private transport can rely on public transport services for convenient access to the hospital.

By Bus

• Several bus routes serve Derriford Hospital, with stops directly outside the main entrance.
• Key bus routes to Derriford Hospital include:
  • Route 42 / 42A / 42B (from Plymouth City Centre)
  • Route 1 / 1A (from Tavistock)
  • Route 27 / 28 (from Estover and Derriford)
• Buses run frequently throughout the day, but it is advisable to check timetables before travelling.

By Taxi or Ride-Share Services

• A taxi rank is available outside the main entrance for easy access.
• Ride-sharing services like Uber and local taxi firms provide door-to-door hospital drop-offs.
• Pre-booking a taxi is recommended, especially for early morning or late evening visits.

By Foot or Bicycle

• Derriford Hospital has safe pedestrian routes with designated crossings.
• Bicycle racks are available near the main entrance for those cycling to the hospital.

Hospital Visitor Parking Options

Derriford Hospital provides hospital visitor parking facilities, but spaces can be limited during peak visiting hours.

Main Visitor Car Parks

• The main visitor parking is located near the Main Entrance and Emergency Department.
• Additional overflow parking areas are available within walking distance.

Parking Charges (subject to change)

• Blue Badge Holders: Free parking available in designated disabled bays.
• Short-Stay Parking: Drop-off zones available for quick visits (under 20 minutes).

Tips for Finding Parking at Derriford Hospital

• Arrive early to secure a parking space, especially during busy hours (10 AM – 4 PM).
• Use Park & Ride services from The George and Milehouse, which offer direct bus routes to the hospital.
• Consider off-site parking alternatives in nearby car parks for longer visits.

Visitors should always check updated parking policies and pay at designated machines or via hospital parking apps to avoid fines.

Try Reading: Bournemouth Hospital Visiting Times

Contact Information for Derriford Hospital

Having the right hospital contact details is essential for visitors who need to make visitor enquiries or seek assistance before arriving at Derriford Hospital.

Whether requesting visiting hours updates, contacting specific wards, or arranging special permissions, multiple communication channels are available.

Main Hospital Contact Details

For general enquiries, visitors can use the main Derriford Hospital contact number:

• Main Switchboard: 01752 202082
• Address: Derriford Hospital, Derriford Road, Plymouth, PL6 8DH, United Kingdom
• Website: plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk

For those needing specific department contacts, the hospital’s switchboard can redirect calls accordingly.

Visitor Enquiries and Ward-Specific Contact Information

If visitors need to confirm visiting times, check patient conditions, or arrange special visits, they should contact the specific ward.

• General Visiting Information: 01752 430000
• ICU & Critical Care Unit Enquiries: 01752 792200
• Maternity Ward Contact: 01752 438270
• Children’s Ward (Paediatrics): 01752 792383

Tip: It is advisable to call during non-peak hours (before 10 AM or after 5 PM) for faster response times.

Assistance for Visitors and Special Requests

Derriford Hospital offers several support services for visitors who require assistance during their visit.

Patient Liaison and Visitor Support:

For those needing help with hospital navigation, special permissions, or visitor concerns, the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) can assist.

• PALS Helpline: 01752 439884
• Email: [email protected]

Accessibility Assistance:

• Wheelchair access and disability-friendly facilities are available throughout the hospital.
• Staff and volunteer guides can provide support for elderly or disabled visitors.

Lost Property and Parking Assistance

• Lost and Found Office Contact: 01752 439502
• Parking Office Enquiries: 01752 432220

Visitors should keep these contact details handy to ensure smooth coordination when visiting Derriford Hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Derriford Hospital

Visitors often have common questions regarding hospital visitor rules, visiting hours, and hospital policies. Below are four frequently asked questions to help clarify essential details.

1. What are the general visiting times at Derriford Hospital?

Derriford Hospital visiting times for most general wards are:

• Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Maximum of two visitors per patient at a time.
• Certain wards, such as ICU and Maternity, have different schedules.

Always check with the ward directly for the most up-to-date information.

2. Can I visit outside normal visiting hours in case of an emergency?

Yes, but special permissions are required. Late-night or emergency visits may be allowed in cases such as:

• End-of-life care or critical condition patients.
• Maternity ward visits for partners.
• Paediatric ward access for parents.

Visitors must contact the ward manager or hospital staff to arrange after-hours access.

3. Is there free parking for hospital visitors?

Limited free parking is available for:

• Blue Badge holders (must park in designated disabled bays).
• Short-term drop-off areas (under 20 minutes).

Regular visitor parking is charged as follows:

It is recommended to use public transport or Park & Ride services during peak hours.

4. How do I check for updates on visiting restrictions?

Visitors can stay updated through the following:

• Derriford Hospital official website (visiting times and restrictions page).
• Calling the hospital switchboard at 01752 202082.
• Following NHS and hospital social media pages for real-time updates.

Checking before visiting ensures compliance with any temporary visitor restrictions.

Please Read: Tameside Hospital Visiting Times

Understanding Derriford Hospital visiting times helps ensure a smooth and stress-free visit while respecting hospital policies and patient well-being.

Keeping up to date with visiting hours, rules, and guidelines allows visitors to plan ahead and support their loved ones without unnecessary inconvenience.

For the latest updates on Derriford Hospital visiting times, be sure to check with the hospital directly and follow any changes to visitor policies.

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