General Information

Visiting

It is important for new mothers to rest and not become overtired. We advise that you organise your visitors so they do not all visit together or stay too long. Visiting outside specified times disturbs other mothers and as requested by previous users of our service we have set visiting times.

Partners: 2pm – 9pm

Other Visitors: 2pm-4pm and 6.30pm-8pm.

At the request of new mums we have a rest hour from 1pm-2pm. This designated time is so that new mums and those who have problems in their pregnancy can have a rest without interruptions. Partners only may remain until 9pm and other visitors are asked to respect this time for new parents.

Outside these hours visitors will not be admitted to the wards without special permission and agreement from the mother and ward staff.

The safety of babies is a priority. To protect newborn babies, only children over 10 years old or the mother's own children can visit and must be accompanied by an adult. It is requested that persons with coughs and colds, or anyone who has been in contact, directly or indirectly with infectious diseases, should not visit the department due to the risk of infection.

Visiting in Labour Ward

Your partner or chosen birth companion is welcome at all times in Labour Ward. No other visiting is permitted as privacy and dignity for all mothers must be maintained.

Toilets for visitors

These are situated on the ground floor of the main hospital, opposite the reception area.

Telephones

Telephones are located on the ground floor the unit. You will need 20p, 50p or £1 coins for the telephone. The phones are available for outgoing calls only. It is not possible for inpatients to accept incoming calls except in an emergency. Please note mobile phones can affect clinical equipment and must not be used in the Maternity Unit.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted within the Maternity Unit by staff, patients relatives or visitors. There are no facilities within the unit for smoking. This is for the protection of all our health and particularly newborn babies.

Smoke alarms are situated in all areas of the unit and these are sensitive to cigarette smoke. Midwives and a smoking cessation advisor are available to provide help and support for mothers and their partners who wish to stop smoking.

Meal times for mothers

Breakfast 8.30am-10am

Coffee/tea 10am

Lunch 12 noon-1.30pm

Evening meal 5.30pm-6.30pm

Evening drink 9pm

Special meals are available on request for example vegetarian. If you require a special diet for medical reasons, this is arranged in consultation with the hospital dietitian.

Restaurant service

The Oasis Restaurant situated in the main hospital first floor is open every day for meals and snacks. The closing time is 7.15pm. Vending machines are also available on the first floor of the main hospital.

A coffee shop is located on the ground floor of the maternity unit and is open from 9am – 5pm.

Electrical appliances

Appliances such as hairdryers and curling tongs must carry a CE mark. For your convenience hairdryers are available in each ward.

Registration of births

It is the legal duty of the parent to register the birth of the baby within 42 days. If you are not married and you want your baby's fathers name on the birth certificate, he must be present when you register your baby. This can be done either in hospital or at your local registration office. To facilitate you, the registrar visits the wards three times weekly with the exception of bank holidays.

Hospital chaplains

Chaplains visit the wards regularly, and will inform your own priest or minister that you are in hospital if you wish. Each ward also has contact numbers of local priests and ministers who you may wish to be contacted in special circumstances.

Social worker

If you require advice or help during your pregnancy you can access social work support by asking a midwife or by contacting Lynn O'Neill, Maternity Social Worker direct on 02890561309.

Stress in pregnancy

It is now widely recognised that pregnancy can be a stressful time. This can sometimes have a huge impact on relationships, and in some cases may result in physical, sexual or emotional violence. The effect of this on the pregnancy, the relationship and the family can be traumatic and so we have support which we can offer in these circumstances. If you disclose that there is a problem, this will be taken seriously and will be dealt with the utmost sensitivity and confidence. There are help lines and groups which you can be put in touch with. These can give you access to specially trained people who can give you

practical advice, help and support. Please refer to the support groups below for further details:

Womens Aid: 028 9033 1818

Victim Support: 028 9024 4039

The mental health team

If you require advice or would like support from a member of the mental health team please ask your midwife or obstetrician to refer you to the appropriate professional. The Team can offer support if you suffer from eating disorders, drug and alcohol problems or any other psychiatric disorders.

Car parking facilities

A pay and display system operates within the hospital grounds. You will need to bring change for the machine which is situated in the main reception area of the general hospital. There is no pay machine situated within the Maternity Unit.

There is a designated space outside the main door for use by emergency ambulances. It is essential that you do not park in this area. There is a drop off point beside the emergency ambulance bay. If you need to use this area please inform staff at the Outpatients Reception so that you can be contacted to remove your car if necessary. As soon as possible move your car to a designated pay and display car park.

Unexpected outcomes

Grief is not usually associated with pregnancy, but not all pregnancies progress smoothly. Unfortunately miscarriages, stillbirths and babies born with abnormalities do occur. If unexpected problems occur, the hospital has staff and services to support you. A team of midwives, doctors, social workers, chaplains and a bereavement counsellor are available. There are also support groups which can be contacted.

Bounty services

Bounty Photographic operates in the wards, a photographer visits every day of the week. You will have the opportunity at the bedside to view the photos and place an order. Your Maternity Unit benefits from the revenue from this service. For further information ring 0845 766 0665.

A Bounty Distributor visits this hospital on a regular basis to distribute packs containing FREE samples and the Child Benefits Claim Pack. The Bounty Customer Care Line is 0800 316 9341.

Home Start

Home-start volunteers offer support, friendship and practical help to young families who are experiencing stress, and who have at least one child under the age of five. Home-Start provides an independent, confidential service.

Further information is available:

Tel: 028 9045 9429

Web: www.home-start.org.uk

Freephone information line: 0800 068 6368