West Suffolk Hospital Foundation Trust want to support all young carers to access their services as both a visitor supporting a patient or if they are admitted themselves.
At West Suffolk hospital foundation trust we want to support all young carers accessing our services as both a visitor supporting a patient or if admitted themselves. Please speak with ward nursing staff to ask for a family carer pack.
Young carers visiting an inpatient are entitled to:
- A family carer badge to get discounted meals at the timeout restaurant on the 1st floor. Check the map of the hospital
- Extended/alternative visiting hours should you need this. Please speak with the nurse in charge.
- Discounted daily rates for car parking for Young Adult Carers.
Arriving by bus or coach?
The main bus station is in St Andrew’s Street North, a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. Mulleys Bus Company runs the M11/M22 bus service from here to the hospital and return; currently this runs at hourly intervals at 10 minutes past the hour arriving at the hospital at 27 minutes past.
There is a bus stop at the front of the hospital and along the road just outside the hospital grounds.
For details on all buses in the Bury St Edmunds area log on to: Suffolk on Board
Finding your way around the hospital
The chapel on the ground floor is available 24/7 for a quiet space away from the clinical environment.
Understanding NHS Jargon
Navigating medical terms can be confusing, especially when you're young and looking after someone. This jargon buster website is designed to break down all those complex medical and NHS terms into simple, easy-to-understand language. Whether you're at a doctor's appointment, reading a prescription, or just want to understand more, this should help you feel confident and informed. But remember you can always ask a clinician to explain in simpler ways.
Ask the clinical team
Clear communication with various members of the clinical team—such as doctors, nurses, and therapists—is essential for staying informed about updates of the person you care for. You should feel empowered to ask questions and seek clarifications. Doctors can provide detailed medical updates, nurses can offer day-to-day care insights, and therapists can address psychological needs. You can find ward times and phone numbers on the West Suffolk Hospital website.
