We hold clinic appointments at a number of different sites so check your appointment letter carefully to make sure you know where to go.

Preparing for your child's appointment

What should I do if we cannot attend the appointment?

Please let us know by telephoning the number shown on your appointment letter. Your appointment can then be rearranged and your original date can be given to someone else.

What if I need help with interpreting?

Interpreters are available. To arrange an interpreter please call the number on your appointment letter before your appointment or call 0114 271 7594.

How do we get there?

Use our sites information pages to find directions and travel information to each of our clinic settings.

What if I have questions?

If your child needs to visit hospital you or your child might have some questions. Write down any questions you may have and bring them with you to discuss with your doctor or nurse at your clinic appointment.

On the day of the appointment

Who needs to be there with my child?

A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the appointment.

What should we bring on the day?

• Appointment letter
• Medications
• Personal child health record (for local children) 'Born in Sheffield' books
• Books/comics
• Toys
• School work

Try not to bring valuables. The trust cannot accept any liability for any loss or damage of valuables.

What time should we get there?

Please allow time for travel and remember parking is very limited. Please do not report to the clinic area more than 20 minutes before your appointment time.

Where do we go?

Check your appointment letter as some clinics are held at sites away from Sheffield Children's Hospital. Report to reception at whichever site your appointment is for. Check our site information for travel and directions.  

How long will we have to wait?

You will be seen in the order of the appointments sent out, rather than in the order of arrival. Sometimes delays can occur due to complex cases.  Staff will try to keep you informed of delays.

What happens at the appointment?

Do we see the consultant?

You may be seen by the consultant, another doctor or by another specialist such as a nurse or therapist. Your child's care will be overseen by a consultant.

What then?

If your child needs to be weighed and measured you will be shown to a private changing room. Other tests will be explained if they are needed.  Children having eye examinations may need to have eye drops given.

X-rays and blood tests

Some tests may include an x-ray or scan. If this is required you will be directed to the x-ray department. The procedure is normally like taking a photograph and the results will be sent to your consultant for discussion at this appointment or your next appointment.

Other tests can require a sample of blood to be taken from your child.  This may mean a small needle being inserted into the back of the hand or a thumb prick of blood. The procedure is generally quick although you may have to wait to be seen by a nurse who takes the blood.

What happens when we are finished?

You may need another appointment or test. You can check with the reception staff about this. If you need to collect medicines, ask for directions to our pharmacy.

There is plenty to cater for your needs at each of our sites

Play and distractions while you wait

Most clinics have a play specialist who is able to provide toys and games for children and young people of all ages. Most outpatient areas have a mixture of ages, if your child is older they are welcome to bring some of their own books/magazines.

Electronic game systems

Portable games systems can be used around the trust except in intensive care, the neonatal ward and theatres. The trusts accepts no responsibility for the loss or damage of valuables. 

Telephones and mobile phones

There are a number of payphones around Sheffield Children's Hospital the Northern General Hospital and other sites.

Mobile phones are permitted in all areas except, intensive care, the neonatal ward and theatres. 

Shops and supplies

In the main entrance of Sheffield Children's Hospital there is a newsagents and a league of friends shop. Please check opening times on the signs on the shops.

At the Northern General Hospital there are various shops located around the site. Ask at reception for the nearest one to your clinic.

Refreshments

Sheffield Children's Hospital has a restaurant near the outpatient's department.

Parkside restaurant opening times:

• Breakfast - 7.30am-11.30am
• Lunch - 12noon-3.30pm
• Tea - 4.30pm-7.30pm

There is also a small cafe in the main entrance area this is open all day from 8am till 7pm.

A number of vending machines serving drinks, snacks, hot and cold food can be found across the hospital.

At the Northern General Hospital there are several cafes and restaurants as well as vending machines, ask at the reception for the nearest one to your clinic.

At Ryegate there are vending machines.

At Centenary House there are no facilities on site, nearby is a large supermarket with facilities.

Cash machines

The nearest cash machines to Sheffield Children's Hospital are located at the University of Sheffield, student union, Western Bank. Cash back is available with a debit card from the Parkside restaurant.

There are cash machines located around the Northern General Hospital site, ask at reception for information.

Feeding and nappy changing facilities

Please ask staff for assistance in directing you to a suitable facility near your clinic. You will need to provide your own nappies and feeds for your baby.