East Cheshire NHS Trust is pleased to announce updated visiting arrangements that will increase access for families, carers and loved ones across all inpatient areas.
From April 2026, visiting will be welcomed between 11:00am and 7:00pm on all adult inpatient wards, with flexibility for patients receiving end‑of‑life care and those with additional needs.
These changes reflect the Trust’s commitment to delivering patient‑centred care and recognising the important role that families and carers play in recovery, wellbeing and emotional support.
This update follows a full review of the Trust’s Visiting Policy and reinforces our belief that maintaining close connections during a hospital stay enhances communication, improves patient experience and supports better outcomes.
Paul Devlin, Deputy Chief Nurse, said: "We know how important it is for patients to have their loved ones close by.
"By extending visiting hours, we are strengthening our commitment to compassionate, person‑centred care while ensuring that safety, privacy and dignity remain at the heart of everything we do.”
To maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for all patients:
- A maximum of two visitors may attend at the bedside at any one time.
- Individual arrangements will be made for patients receiving end‑of‑life care or those who would benefit from additional support.
- Visitors are kindly asked not to attend if they are unwell and to follow all infection‑prevention guidance provided by staff.
For any questions, patients and families are encouraged to speak with ward staff, who will be happy to provide support and guidance.
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