We have signed up to the John’s Campaign allowing open visiting times for relatives and carers of patients with dementia.

John’s Campaign was started by the Nicci Gerrard, the daughter of Dr John Gerrard, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in his mid-seventies, and Julia Jones, whose mother June Jones had a similar experience. Dr Gerrard’s experience was the catalyst for this campaign known as ‘stay with me’ to allow open visiting for family and carers to be there to support their loved ones during their stay.

We have dedicated teams of highly skilled nurses, doctors and allied healthcare professionals providing patients with dementia with specialised care. Carers are welcomed onto the ward and made to feel valued and respected as carers caring for their loved one living with Dementia.

While they visit the hospital, they are encouraged to participate in any care delivery or therapy sessions that they and the patients choose. We have overnight hygiene bags and fold down beds, if carers need to stay overnight.

The trust accepts that many patients and families want this and that patients benefit from the support of their loved ones whilst in hospital. We believe they should feel valued and respected at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

To find out more about John’s campaign visit www.johnscampaign.org.uk