Ask about hospital accommodation first
Some hospitals offer patient hotels or rooms for relatives. Children’s hospitals may work with charities that house eligible families. Referral rules differ: a room arranged through a ward is not a private booking. Our hospital accommodation guide sets out the routes we have found.
NHS travel costs
The Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme can help eligible patients referred for specialist NHS care. Eligibility depends on the referral and financial circumstances. An accompanying person may qualify when the healthcare professional considers their travel necessary; visiting a patient is not itself eligible.
Use the NHS eligibility and claim guidance before spending. This scheme is separate from paying for an apartment.
Driving charges and parking
Some NHS patients can reclaim eligible London road-user charges through the treating hospital. The hospital assesses eligibility, and its process matters. Do not assume a Blue Badge, a hospital appointment or an accommodation booking automatically qualifies.
TfL patient reimbursement rules ↗. The hospital’s own travel page covers parking concessions and the correct drop-off point.
What to ask your insurer or sponsor
- Does cover include accommodation outside the hospital, or only a parent staying with an admitted child?
- Who is covered, for how many nights, and is approval required before booking?
- Must the invoice identify a particular guest, address, currency or booking period?
- Are deposits, cleaning, changes and unused nights reimbursable?
Obtain the answer for your own policy or funding agreement. We do not assume that a private apartment is insured or embassy-funded.
Finding other support
Turn2us Grants Search can help identify charitable funds. Families receiving support from a hospital social worker can ask about relevant local or condition-specific assistance. Funds have their own criteria and budgets.
Compare the whole stay
Keep refundable deposits separate from the cost of accommodation. Include required cleaning and additional beds. Use the stay planner to compare actual quotes and the cost of an extension or early departure.