FAQs

At Salisbury Hospice, we understand that patients and families may have many questions about our care services and what to expect.

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:

Getting here

Where is Salisbury Hospice located?

Salisbury Hospice is located within the grounds of Salisbury District Hospital. Enter the hospital site at Entrance B, take the first right, and follow signs to the hospice (Car Park 12).

The hospice reception will register your vehicle. Alternative parking is available at Car Park 15.


Parking

Free parking is available for hospice patients and visitors. Reserved hospice bays are located in Car Park 12, with additional parking available throughout the hospital site.

Please speak to a member of staff on arrival to register your vehicle and ensure you are not charged.

Care and Services

Is there a charge for your services?

No. All hospice care is free of charge for patients and families. Services are funded through local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and generous donations raised by Salisbury Hospice Charity.


Do you offer respite care?

We are not able to provide respite care. All services are accessed through referral by a healthcare professional.

If you believe hospice support may be appropriate, please speak with your GP, specialist nurse, or other healthcare provider.

Visiting the Hospice

Visiting times

We have an open visit policy. Families and friends may visit at times most suitable for the patient.

We kindly ask that large groups of late-night visits are arranged in advance with the nursing team to maintain a peaceful environment.


Can my family stay with me?

Yes. Family members can stay overnight when needed. Guest facilities are available, please speak to a member of staff on the Inpatient Unit.

We offer a welcoming family room with:

  • Large dining table
  • Kitchenette with microwave, crockery, and cutlery
  • Comfortable sofas, TV, books, and puzzles
  • Children’s games and toys (in the Terrace Room)

Can pets visit?

Yes, well-behaved pets are welcome if this brings comfort to the patient. Please speak with staff beforehand to arrange an appropriate time.


What if I arrive after hours?

The Hospice front door is locked after 5:00pm.
Press the call button at the entrance and a member of staff will let you in.

Preparing for Admission

What should I bring?
  • Comfortable clothing and nightwear
  • Toiletries and personal care items
  • Any medication you are currently taking
  • Community (district) nursing notes
  • Personal items such as photos or small comforts from home

We encourage patients to bring items that help them feel settled and supported.


Medication

Please bring your current medications if admitted. Our medical team will review them and ensure they are managed safely during the stay.


Your property

While we take care to keep belongings safe, we recommend valuables are left at home. Salisbury Hospice cannot accept responsibility for lost or damaged items.

Facilities and Amenities

What food and drink options are available nearby?

There are several food outlets within Salisbury District Hospital:

Hedgerows Café (near Entrance B)

  • Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 4:00pm

Springs Restaurant (Level 2)

  • Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 7:30pm
  • Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am – 7:30pm

Costa and WHSmith (Main Entrance)

  • Costa: food and hot drinks
  • WHSmith: snacks, drinks, and essentials

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospice, funded by Salisbury Hospice Charity.

Data sharing and Privacy

How is my clinical information shared?

We use SystemOne, a secure electronic health record shared by hospices, GPs, district nurses, community teams, and hospitals.

Information is only shared on a need-to-know, consent-based basis.


What are the benefits of sharing my record?
  • Healthcare professionals can access up-to-date medical history
  • Reduces the need to repeat information
  • Supports timely communication for prescriptions or urgent visits
  • Helps ensure smooth transitions between care settings

Who can see my record?

Only healthcare professionals directly involved in your care, and who use SystmOne.

Administrative staff have limited access strictly for administrative tasks.


How do I make or withdraw?

You can:

  • Speak with your Community Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Speak with any member of the hospice care team
  • Contact our administration team by phone

Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking

Smoking is allowed for patients only, in a designated smoking area, and requires signing a smoking agreement.

Please note: the wider Trust site operates a no-smoking policy


Alcohol

Alcohol is not routinely permitted, but may be allowed in certain circumstances.
Please speak with the nursing team for guidance.

Feedback

We value your feedback

To share your experience or raise a concern, please email us:

sft.hospiceadmin@nhs.net

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