Before you visit

Before you come to Alder Hey

Before visiting us here, there are certain things that you may need to know. For example, there is guidance for visitors to all Alder Hey sites, which includes our mask-wearing policy and explains where there may be exemptions.

This section has been created to allow you to familiarise yourself with this information to help avoid any potential issues when you arrive. Knowing this information in advance may also help you to speak to your child about coming to hospital and address any concerns they may have about it.

See what it’s like before you arrive 

Alder Hey is a big place and it’s easy for you, or your child, to become overwhelmed. Our wonderful volunteers will be on hand to assist you with any questions you may have. You may want to take a look at Alder Hey’s digital playground; Alder Play, which allows you to take a virtual tour of certain parts of the hospital.

When you’re here, you’ll see lots of different coloured uniforms, which indicates that person’s role in the organisation. If you’d like to know more about what each one means, please ask one of our volunteers or a staff member.

Download ‘My Hospital Guide’

My Hospital Guide (6MB pdf)

This guide has been made by listening to what other children, young people, parents/carers and staff have told us has helped them. Download and print off the guide to write or draw on, or ask someone to help you fill in the pages.

Additional support

We want to make your visit to Alder Hey as easy and stress-free as possible, for you and your child. That’s why we also offer support for anyone with additional needs, to help ensure your time here is a safe and happy one.

You’ll also find a range of facilities on-site that will allow you a chance to relax, grab a coffee and a bite to eat and pick up some of those essentials that you may have forgotten to bring with you. You can find out everything you need to know about the facilities at Alder Hey on our website.