Information for parents/guardians
This leaflet can be made available in other formats including large print, CD and Braille and in languages other than English, upon request.
Please read this information leaflet carefully so that you know how and when to use the Open Access service, and more importantly know when more immediate action is needed.
What is Open Access?
Open Access means that babies and children have the right to access (get) medical advice and treatment from the hospital without going to their GP first.
The Open Access will be provided through the Children and Young People’s Emergency Department (CYPED).
Why is my child getting Open Access?
Your child has been given Open Access as they have an ongoing medical need although they have been discharged from hospital.
The Open Access is only given for a certain amount of time, and this will be discussed with you before your child is discharged.
If I am concerned about my child what should I do?
If you are concerned or you notice any of the following, such as your baby;
- has irregular breathing, pauses in breathing, or is breathing faster than usual;
- is lethargic (very tired and not moving as much) on handling or is floppy;
- is excessively (very) sleepy;
- has blue, mottled or very pale skin;
- is not feeding;
- is having a seizure;
- is crying inconsolably (unable to be comforted);
- needs more oxygen than usual (if on oxygen at home).
You must ring 999 immediately for an ambulance.
This will bring your baby straight to the Emergency Department where they will be assessed (checked).
If you have a copy of your child’s discharge letter please bring this to the hospital with you, along with any medicines they are currently taking.
If you are concerned about your child, or your child requires their feeding tube replacing you should contact the CYPED and speak to a member of staff. See contact numbers for details.
This is so that your child’s needs can be assessed by a member of staff over the telephone and the right advice can be given to you, or arrangements made for you and your child to come to the correct department.
You must not turn up before contacting the CYPED unless it is an emergency.
Contact numbers
University Hospital of North Tees
Children’s and Young People’s Emergency Department
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Telephone: 01642 624533
Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints
Patient Experience Team (PET)
We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:
Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]
Out of hours
Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617
Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience
We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:
Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]
Data protection and use of patient information
The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.
Telephone: 01642 383551
Email: [email protected]Privacy Notices
Leaflet feedback
This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:
Email: [email protected]
Leaflet reference: PIL1109 version 2
Date for review: February 2028