Parent Facilities

On the Neonatal Unit there is a small reception area with seating for you and your visitors. (Please remember that only 2 visitors per cot-side)

There is a children's play area and reading corner for the siblings of your baby to play in.

We would like to remind you that you are responsible for your children whilst visiting the neonatal unit.

Children must not be left unattended.

Also in the reception area, we have a range of leaflets available to you which explain more about your baby's journey through the neonatal unit from admission to discharge. There is also information about specific conditions, research projects we are involved in and other aspects of caring for your baby

There is a coat stand for you and your visitors to hang outside coats on as your are aware we operate a bare below elbows policy. We also have some secure lockers for you to use. If you speak to our receptionist she will be able to give you a code for the padlock.

In the parents' accommodation we have a seating area for parents. There is a kitchenette which includes a large fridge so you can store your lunch or dinner plus a microwave for you to use and tea making facilities.

Please be aware that having a baby on the unit is a very stressful time these facilities have been designed as a tranquil quiet area for parents to rest close to their baby.

These facilities are for the parents only. All other visitors are able to use seating area in reception.

In the parents' accommodation, a previous mum who has had 2 children on our unit has set up a snack bar with the help of her local church.

Parents are able to help themselves to the snack bar. We are aware that every moment with your baby is precious, and when your baby is very sick you can forget to look after yourself. The snack bar is there for you to use.

Going home for the evening can be anxiety-inducing for parents, particularly for those with very sick babies who fear what could happen while they are away. For those parents who live far away from hospital or whose baby is in a critical condition it is imperative for them to be able to stay close to their baby to give their child the best possible chance of survival and good long-term health.

In the Gallagher Suite we have 4 bedrooms available for parents for short term use. 3 double rooms and 1 twin room.

Due to the limited facilities priority is given to families whose baby is very unwell and those who do not live locally. However, if you wish to stay overnight, please ask the nurse in charge and she will be able to say if a room is available.

Cafes and Restaurants

Ashford and St Peter's has launched a new catering and retail service. The new food offer outpatients and visitors includes an exciting range of portable items, with fresh juices, filled wraps, salad pots, paninis and baguettes. All our facilities offer fresh bean coffee, a range of fruit and herbal teas and freshly produced food.

Retreat Café

Situated in the main entrance, featuring Perkee coffee, hot bistro food and hot jacket potatoes, paninis and wraps, with daily menus advertised on screen.

• Monday to Sunday: 7.30am - 4pm

Abbey Wing Costa

Situated in Abbey Wing, serves Costa coffee, tea, breakfast, sandwiches, soup, and a good selection of home made cakes.

• Monday to Friday: 8am - 5pm

WHSmith Shop

Situated in the main entrance, featuring grab-and-go snacks, sandwiches, fruit, snacks, newspapers, magazines, books, cards etc.

• Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm
• Saturday and Sunday: 10am - 2pm, 2.20pm to 4pm

Vending Facilities

Vending facilities are available in the following locations:

• Level 2 main entrance: Costa coffee and cold drinks
• Level 3 Duchess of Kent opposite the lifts: Snacks, cold drinks and hot and cold food (microwave facilities)
• Abbey Wing ground floor: coffee, snacks and cold drinks
• Accident and Emergency: Café Couture coffee, cold drink and food
• Rowley Bristow: Cold drinks and snacks

Local Hotels

Below are local hotels should a parent or family member need to stay close by.

Please note that the Trust does not endorse these hotels. They are presented for information purposes only.