The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital in Norwich, Norfolk, has extended its visiting hours until 10:00 pm for the duration of Ramadan. Starting on 17 February 2026, the change allows families and carers who are fasting during the day more time to see their loved ones in adult wards.
Standard visiting hours at the hospital usually run from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm. The hospital decided to push back the closing time to support those who break their fast at sunset, an evening meal known as Iftar, and perform evening prayers after their day of fasting. This gives visitors a viable window to travel to the hospital after their evening commitments are finished.
This initiative is part of a focus on community needs following the launch of the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group in December 2025. Hospital leaders stated that they understand how difficult it is for those who are fasting to visit during the typical afternoon and early evening windows, as the sunset meal often happens during those times.
The 10:00 pm extension applies to all adult in-patient areas and will stay in place for the full month of Ramadan. By providing this extra time, the hospital aims to ensure patients receive the essential support of their families. Healthcare leaders noted that having loved ones nearby is known to improve patient experience and help people recover more quickly during their stay.
The extension to 10:00 pm builds upon a policy first introduced in 2024 to align visiting hours with the Islamic lunar calendar. It follows successful trials of expanded visiting times that have been implemented across the Trust since late 2024. The policy is designed to reduce the emotional and logistical pressure on local families while making sure that hospital wards remain accessible to the whole community.
