Visiting times at Derriford Hospital are changing so that friends and family can visit loved ones throughout the day, from 7.30am to 10pm.

Managers say the change is being made: ’In recognition of the invaluable role and contribution that families and carers provide to their loved ones when they are in hospital.’

From Monday, August 1, all adult inpatient wards, with the exception of critical care and maternity, will be open between 7.30am and 10pm.

The #letsbeopen campaign was introduced by former Matron Emma Wilkinson and, following her departure, has been led by Matrons Judy Frame and Sue Timmins, supported by the communications team.

Judy, Matron for cardiothoracics and vascular, said: ’We hope, by opening our wards up for longer to families, loved ones and carers, it will enable them to be more involved in their relatives’ care and planning for their discharge home or to onward care.’

To support this change, a Visitors’ Charter for Adult Inpatients has been developed, which includes standards that staff ask all visitors to respect, such as ensuring no more than two people visit at any one time, supporting and encouraging the patient during mealtimes, observing quiet times or being asked to leave for a short period of time, such as during doctors’ rounds.