The Spires, John Radcliffe Oxford...confused...

[DoodleMomma]

Hi everyone,

This is my first post and first pregnancy so sorry if this has been covered before.

I'm wondering if anyone has given birth at The Spires at the JR in Oxford? I can't work out how it works...so questions...

• Can see online they have 3 rooms, do you book these in advance or is it a case of what's available on the day and if they're all being used do you still have to go downstairs?

• Are these the rooms you have to pay for?

• Or are the rooms you pay for just for use after you've given birth?

• If you don't pay for a private room, when you've given birth do you then go downstairs to the main ward?

• Do standard visiting hours apply at The Spires i.e. if you're not in advanced labour, does your birthing partner have to leave you still?

Any info would be really appreciated as don't think they do tours anymore.

Thanks x

I gave birth there about 6 years ago so things might have changed since then. My experience was first come, first served. When I was there two rooms were available so I could choose, but if they'd been full I would have had to go downstairs to the delivery suite.
I was then allowed to stay overnight in one of the three rooms at no cost and could have stayed in the room for 24 hours after birth.
I'm not sure about standard visiting hours as I was already in advanced labour when I arrived so it wasn't an issue.
I think there have been a few threads on mumsnet that have mentioned the Spires so might be worth a search for other experiences.
It was a great experience - although I'd given birth in the delivery suite downstairs at the JR as well previously and had a good experience there too.

Oh thank you leddeeburdee, that's really helpful, I couldn't quite work it out from the other things I'd read.

Will grill the midwife at my next apt! :)