We know how important visiting is for our patients, their families, friends and carers. 

Due to an increase in respiratory infections locally and nationally, from 8 October 2025 all visitors must wear a mask while in clinical areas at our hospitals. Masks will be available at all main entrances at East Surrey Hospital. Wearing masks in non-clinical areas remains optional.

If you have symptoms associated with respiratory conditions, including COVID-19 and flu, we ask that you do not visit our hospital unless you are a patient with a booked appointment which you should still attend.

If you have had diarrhoea or vomiting, you should not come to the hospital until you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours. You can find out more about Norovirus here.

Visiting remains open, except for wards with infection control restrictions in place such as in areas affected by Norovirus.

We have put these measures in place to protect patients, our community and NHS staff while ensuring as many services as possible are available for those who need them.

We will keep these arrangements under close review and will update this page with the latest guidance. 

Updated 17 Dec 2025

Visiting Times at East Surrey Hospital

At East Surrey Hospital, we know how important it is for patients to stay connected with family and friends. We aim to make visiting as flexible and supportive as possible while ensuring patient safety and comfort.

Please check with the ward before visiting, as times or arrangements may change due to clinical needs or infection control. Some wards and clinical areas may have specific visiting times, so it’s always best to confirm before you arrive.

Open Visiting Policy

We operate an open visiting policy, meaning you can visit at times that suit you and the patient. However, we recommend the following best visiting times to avoid disruption to care:

10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (please avoid clinical handover times where possible).

John’s Campaign

We support John’s Campaign, which recognizes carers as partners in care. Carers are welcome to stay beyond standard visiting times and assist with care whenever needed. Please speak to the ward team for flexible arrangements or to request a Carer’s Passport.

Visitor Numbers

To maintain a calm and safe environment, we ask that no more than two visitors are at the bedside at any one time.

Visiting During Meal Times

Meal times are an important part of patient care. If you are assisting a loved one with eating and drinking, you are welcome to stay during these times—please let the ward team know.

  • Breakfast: 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
  • Lunch: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
  • Dinner: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

For other visitors, we kindly ask that you avoid visiting during meal times to allow patients privacy and ensure they receive the nutrition they need.

Reducing Noise and Distractions

Please help us maintain a calm environment by keeping noise to a minimum. Avoid loud conversations, phone calls, and unnecessary movement around the ward.

Temporary Ward Closures

In the event of an infection outbreak or other safety concerns, visiting may be restricted or suspended. We will communicate any changes promptly.