The Unit provides care for children up to the age of 18 years with these conditions:

  • Medical
  • Surgical
  • ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)
  • Ophthalmology (eyes)
  • Dermatology (skin)
  • Orthopaedic

The ward also provides care for those children with complex and chronic illnesses, many of whom require investigations or day care treatment.

We welcome parents/carers and siblings at any time but please speak to the nurse in charge about any other visitors.

The Children's Unit has a schoolroom with teaching staff that can provide education while children are in hospital.

Our Children's Outreach Nursing Service office is also based on the Children's unit and you can find more information on their web page.

Location

Great Western Hospital - Second Floor (please see Floor plans). 

Visiting

This information shows the normal arrangements for visiting patients on this ward, but temporary restrictions may be in place, so please always first check Coronavirus (COVID-19): Visitor guidance.

Day Times
Every day 2.30pm-4.30pm and 6.00pm-7.30pm

Parents

Parents have unlimited access, and visiting for close family members is flexible as appropriate.

Ward rounds

Every day a Consultant ward round will take place, usually in the morning.

This will give you an opportunity to ask any questions relating to your child and their treatment.

During the day

A Doctor is always available but they also have to cover the Emergency Department, so there may be a wait as they prioritise their care for the sickest children.

At night

There are always two doctors on call at night and a consultant on call.

During this time they cover not just the Children's Unit, but the Special Care Baby Unit, Delivery Suite and the Emergency Department.

Contact

Tel: 01793 604095

Patients, families and their carers have access to a dedicated phone line on each ward for direct communication; the phone can be taken to the patient's bedside - please ask a member of staff for details.

We ask that one member of the family conveys information to other family members, to avoid several calls to the ward. 

Further information

To find out more about what it's like to stay in hospital, please see Children and young people: FAQ.