Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) has launched a new set of virtual access guides to help people with physical or sensory access needs plan visits and navigate inside hospital buildings. Created with AccessAble and fully funded by Oxford Hospitals Charity, the project covers more than 60 services, wards and departments across the Horton General and NOC.
Quick Details
Sites covered:
- Horton General Hospital, Banbury (39 guides)
- Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford (29 guides)
Free to use: on the OUH website (look for the “AccessAble” button on department pages) and on AccessAble’s website (mobile-optimised)
At a glance
- What they are: Detailed Access Guides with clear, step-by-step information about getting to and around specific departments.
- Where to find them: On relevant OUH department pages via the “AccessAble” button, and on the AccessAble website (works smoothly on phones for on-the-day use).
- Who they help: Patients, visitors and staff with a wide range of mobility, sensory and communication needs.
- What’s covered: Entrances, step-free routes, doors and corridor widths, lifts, accessible toilets, parking, lighting, assistive listening systems, signage and more.
- What’s next: OUH aims to develop additional guides for other hospital sites.
How the guides were created
AccessAble’s trained surveyors visited each location to capture detailed, measured information. Every guide is co-produced with disabled people and then tested with volunteers to ensure it’s accurate, relevant and easy to use.
Simon Crowther, Interim CEO, OUH: “We want everyone who comes to our hospitals to feel confident and supported. These guides allow patients and visitors to plan ahead, reduce anxiety and focus on the reason for their visit.”
Douglas Graham, CEO, Oxford Hospitals Charity: “Reducing stress involved in a hospital visit, especially for those worried about accessibility, is an important part of care. We’re delighted to support this initiative.”
Anna Nelson, CEO, AccessAble: “Accessible healthcare starts with accessible information. It’s been a true partnership, and we’re delighted to see the guides live at the Horton and NOC.”
How to use the guides (quick steps)
- Find your service on the OUH website.
- Click the “AccessAble” button (where available) to open the guide.
- Check your route: entrances, lifts, corridors and signage.
- Plan facilities: parking, toilets, seating, hearing support and lighting.
- Save the link or open on your phone for on-site navigation.
Useful links
- OUH — hospital & department pages: search for your clinic/ward and look for the AccessAble button.
- AccessAble: browse all Horton General and NOC guides (mobile-friendly).
- Oxford Hospitals Charity: find out how the charity supports patient experience across OUH.
