WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE ON WARD 35
Arriving on Ward 35 is a daunting and often a completely new experience and it can be difficult to take everything in and know the right questions to ask. Lots of parents enter the unit in the middle of the night which can be disorientating and we know it can also be a difficult time for family and friends who would like to visit new parents and babies on the ward. Visitors often don’t want to add to an already stressful experience by asking logistical questions about where to go and what to do when they arrive, so we’re here to help.
We’re here to make everyone’s experience on the neonatal unit as simple as it can be, so parents, family, and friends can concentrate on being there for their new arrival. With that in mind, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions. If there is anything that you would have found helpful that you think others might find handy we would love to hear your thoughts too!
How do I get into the unit?
All visitors are asked to check it at the maternity reception and the team there can direct you to the ward. The unit operates a secure entry system, family and friends will need to buzz to gain entry but once on the unit parents can sign up for fingerprint entry to come and go as they please.
What members of the Tiny Lives team might I meet?
Members of the Tiny Lives team are a regular sight on the unit (just look out for our branded t-shirts and hoodies) and we are here for you to ask any questions about how Tiny Lives can support you. We also visit for our popular coffee and cake every Wednesday, in the Ward 35 Family Room and on Transitional Care. It’s an informal chance to meet the Tiny Lives team for a chat, cuppa, and slice of something delicious. We also contribute funding to various posts, including members of the physiotherapy team, the family social care team, and the psychology team who are all here to support you and your family.
What happens when I am first admitted?
When you first arrive on the unit you will be given a parent pack which includes lots of things that may come in handy while you are here, including reusable cups and a memory book. We know that there is a lot of new information to absorb and that you will have lots of questions so your pack also includes a notebook and pen so you can keep track of what you are being told.
What if I have older children too?
Older brothers and sisters can find Ward 35 confusing, so we have our sibling packs on hand to help them make sense of everything going on around them and keep boredom at bay while mam and dad are speaking to medical staff or taking care of the new arrival. If you need one you will receive a sibling pack when you first arrive at the unit and inside you’ll find a reading book, a colouring book, and some activities which will help you explain what is happening to their new brother and sister. You’ll also find a TV, toys, and books in the family room that siblings are welcome to use and DVDs are also available to borrow to keep brothers and sisters occupied.
Siblings are allowed in the bays and family room, but we are asked that they are always supervised by an adult, which may mean parents want to consider bringing someone with them while they are speaking to doctors or taking care of your newest arrival.
Is there support with parking?
Yes! We want to take away as much of the mental load as possible, so when you are admitted to the unit you will be given a parking pass for the duration of your time here. Don’t worry if you don’t drive – you can nominate a designated driver, like a grandparent, for the pass. If you don’t drive a car, don’t worry, just let us know and we can support you with bus or train tickets.
You can find more information about how to travel to the unit here
Is there somewhere for me to get some food and a drink?
Our family room is there for you to sit and have something to eat or drink with siblings or extended family and friends. Our refreshments room is designed for parents only. In here you can help yourself to hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, biscuits and cereal. If you’ve brought food from home that you would like to heat up, this is where you will find a microwave too. Tiny Lives are on every Wednesday with coffee and cake and we welcome everyone to come along. Our peer supporters come onto the unit at various times during the week, they have been sat exactly where you are and are happy to be there to answer any questions that you might have. There is a timetable on the notice board in the family room with the times they are coming.
You can find out more details about the unit, including what facilities are available, visiting hours for extended family members, and how to gain access to the ward by visiting:
You can watch a video tour of the unit with matron Angela Warne here which will give you a good idea of things you will find on Ward 35.