Brook House is a converted Grade II listed building, where professional care is practised alongside support for an active and entertaining lifestyle.
Dedicated care workers take pride in a friendly and respectful service, having been established as a family-run home and also offering a day care centre service to the local community.
Meals are made using freshly sourced local produce and key workers are in place to safeguard each individual.
Group: Riseley Beds Ltd
Person in charge: Lesley Atkinson (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services: Bedford Borough Council (click for contact details)
Type of Service: Care Home only (Residential Care) – Privately Owned , Registered for a maximum of 20 Service Users
Registered Care Categories*: Dementia • Old Age • Physical Disability
Specialist Care Categories: Alzheimer's
Admission Information: Ages 60+.
Single Rooms: 14
Shared Rooms: 3
Rooms with ensuite WC: 10
Weekly Charges Guide: Personal Care Single £640 – £675 , Personal Care Shared (per person) £620 – £630 (These prices are only a guideline, please contact Brook House to find out the exact price for your requirements.)
Facilities & Services: Day Care • Respite Care • Own Furniture if required • Smoking not permitted • Close to Local shops • Minibus or other transport • Stairlift • Wheelchair access • Gardens for residents • Phone Point in own room/Mobile • Television point in own room
Directions:
Follow signs for A6 to Kettering. Through the village of Milton Ernest. Take the first right after Milton Ernest towards Bletsoe. At the staggered junction turn right then left. Follow the road into the village of Riseley. Brook House is on the right hand side, after the Fox and Hounds public house.
Visiting:
Brook House has protected meal times. Visitors welcome at any other time but please avoid visiting before 10am, lunchtime which is 12.30-2.00pm. And tea time which is 4.45-5.45
Parking:
The home has a private car park which visitors welcome to use, alternately parking on the road outside is allowed
Latest Care Quality Commission* Report on Brook House: click here
* Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.
The Review Score of 9.5 (maximum of 10) for Brook House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.
a) The Average Rating is 4.5 out of 5 from 27 Reviews over all time. This Average Rating is also the rating value for Brook House in Google's Search Results - more info
b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5 out of 5 from 10 positive Reviews in the last 12 months.
a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating of all Reviews over all time. For each review the Care Home / service is rated Excellent, Good, Satisfactory, Poor or Very Poor on a number of areas eg Staff, Management etc. The Care Home receives points for each rating as follows: Excellent = 5. Good = 4. Satisfactory = 3. Poor = 2. Very Poor = 1. These points are added up and then divided by the total number of completed ratings to generate the average rating.
The Average Rating of 4.458 for Brook House is calculated as follows: ( (170 Excellents x 5) + (129 Goods x 4) + (21 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 321 Ratings = 4.458
b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 12 months. If there are no Positive Reviews in the last 12 months, then 2.5 points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 2 years. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with 'Extremely Likely' or 'Likely' in answer to the question 'How likely are you to recommend this Care Home to friends and family if they needed similar care or treatment?'
The 5 points available are broken down as follows:
4 points are available for the first 5 Positive Reviews, 3 points for the first Positive Review and then 0.25 Points for each of the next 4 Positive Reviews.
1 point is available for reaching a target number of Positive Reviews based on 20% of the number of registered maximum number of service users. If the target is partially reached then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home with 50 registered maximum number of service users has a target of 10 Positive Reviews, if it has 10 or more Positive Reviews it will receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews will receive 0.7 points.
If there are no Positive Reviews in the last 12 months, then 2.5 points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 2 years. The calculation is the same as above, except the points are divided by 2.
The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Brook House is based on 10 positive Reviews in the last 12 months and is calculated as follows:
3 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 = 4
Target of 4 positive Reviews (20 registered maximum number of service users ÷ 5). 10 Reviews ÷ 4 Target Reached = 1
When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
Brook House has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.458) from 27 Reviews
Review submitted from a Website Submission by Kristina B (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 12 February 2018. Relates to January 2018.
Unfortunately we had to place our mother in residential care in September, she was diagnosed with dementia & acute psychosis 05/09/17 and fortunately for us Brook House took her in the following day. It was peace of mind as she had become unsafe in her own home and really scared, to say the least. Although she wasn't happy with our decision at first she came round to it and was seen clapping and singing in latter days, she had also put on weight as she was undernourished before she went in. We can't thank enough, all the staff and management for the service they provided, with trips to doctors etc. It wasn't just the staff, but she made friends as well. Many thanks to everyone, her time with you was pleasant and much appreciated.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Fiona G (Daughter of Resident) on Friday 4 August 2017. Relates to July 2017.
The carers are exceptionally kind and patient with my mum. She always looks clean and smells nice.
Her room is suitable for her requirements and it is great when she is able to sit outside in the garden.
The food is disappointing especially the suppers.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Z G (Daughter of Resident) on Thursday 20 July 2017. Relates to July 2017.
Constant staffing which is good for residents. It would be nice to see (all) their photos with names to remind us of who they are.
Staff seem to know our relative well and talk to her appropriately which is reassuring, however, sometimes her clothes do not match or she is overdressed in too many layers and becomes hot/scratching.
I think more signage reminding residents of day/month/weather and menu boards with pictures as well as words and kept up to date daily.
Relatives kept updated regularly on changes. Great to see activities co-ordinator.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by M W (Wife of Resident) on Monday 10 July 2017. Relates to June 2017.
Residents are treated like members of a family with love and care. They are well fed and kept clean with dignity at all times. Rooms are clean and tidy.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by R N (Son of Resident) on Thursday 29 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
Very satisfied with Brook House. Mum seems well looked after. Plenty of things to do and as mum enjoys animals having some at the home helps her settle. Always looks clean and tidy, staff always happy and helpful. Well done.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by A P (Friend of Resident) on Thursday 29 June 2017. Relates to May 2017.
My friend has no family at all, determined independent, refusing all help. Although very confused is physically well and more able than most of the residents. The staff are sociable with her and she takes part in all activities and entertainment. My husband is 84 and partially sighted, I am 81 and feel sure that as our faculties decline I would be happy if my friend continues to stay at Brook House.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Joan J (Daughter of Resident) on Thursday 29 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
My mother was fortunate in getting into Brook House, the residential home she wanted to go to when she was not capable of looking after herself at home any longer. The staff are very good with her and she gets on well with them and the other residents.
She enjoys her meals, sitting out in the garden on nice days and getting her hair done weekly. She loves the regular entertainment and her weekly games of dominoes.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by A P (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 28 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
My mother has been a resident of Brook House for just over a year, she loves the food and the day centre there especially playing dominoes. The staff are excellent, helpful and patient and very caring. The house is clean and fresh and always a pleasure to visit with safety and security of residents, uppermost. Management is always helpful with any problems or queries.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Lesley Atkinson, Manager at Brook House responded to this review on 10 Jul 2017:
Thank you for your positive feedback. The reviews are very important to us as they enable us to make improvements to the service we offer.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by H W (Husband of Resident) on Wednesday 28 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
Quiet village location - access excellent by road - accommodation in a former family house and though by it's natural movements within the house is somewhat restrictive, it provides closer interaction for both residents and staff. Care standards, on the whole, are highly professional and caring, though some staff in my experience needed encouragement to attend to my wife's personal needs at times such as change of clothes and cutting nails, they were promptly attended to, however, this must be due to staff having to care for all needs of residents which is a very heavy load to bear. This is borne by the fact they are always busy attending to a multitude of residents with high dependency rates. On the whole, together with my family, we are very satisfied with the care given.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Lesley Atkinson, Manager at Brook House responded to this review on 28 Jun 2017:
Thank you a positive review. You are quite right, it is not a purpose built home and whilst it poses a few problems I feel it makes the home more homely. The staff do all try their best and appreciate your kind comments.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by W K (Son of Resident) on Monday 12 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
Lovely accommodation, nice size rooms. Great care workers, keeps everyone happy. Good food and drink, great communication, polite people. Great management and maintenance.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by M D (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 17 May 2017. Relates to May 2017.
Staff are warm friendly and engage well with residents. They are very cooperative arranging hospital visits and transport. We couldn't really ask for more.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Lesley Atkinson, Manager at Brook House responded to this review on 05 Jun 2017:
Thank you so much for your kind comments. I always pass these onto the staff as they are the backbone of the home. Your father is an absolute joy.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Lesley W (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 8 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
My mother had dementia and was at Brook House until 9th April when she died. The love and care that she received was excellent, from the Manager to every one of the staff. There was definitely a very strong culture of care and desire to do their best for the residents. My mum was loved and cared for. Staff tried their best to make her comfortable and happy. I always felt welcome when I visited and felt staff were always keen to listen to my thoughts and views about my mum's care.
Overall I think Brook House is an excellent care home.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Lesley Atkinson, Manager at Brook House responded to this review on 05 Jun 2017:
Thank you so much for your kind words. We miss your mum and have a little chuckle when we talk about her. I would have loved to have known her in an earlier life.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Mitchell G (Grandson of Resident) on Tuesday 2 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
I feel that although my nan's condition has gone downhill, at what sometimes seems like a rapid pace, the staff have been ever so helpful and really do try their best, to keep residents comfortable, stable and safe.
Overall the staff are very kind and helpful towards guests and residents.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Linda G (Daughter-in-law of Resident) on Tuesday 2 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
I have found the care home to be well organised and very homely.
My mother in law always looks nicely dressed, clean and content.
The staff are very chatty and explain things if you are concerned or have any worries.
The home is very clean and always warm. The pets are I think big plus.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Mark A (Son of Resident) on Friday 28 April 2017. Relates to April 2017.
Well run place. The staff in general are very good to the residents.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Website Submission by Angela D (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 18 July 2016. Relates to July 2016.
It was not an easy decision to make to put my mother into care. We did it for a couple of reasons, we knew mum was not well so we went down this route, we wanted to get her some help. Since mum entered the care home she has faced a lot of obstacles. I would like to point out however that whilst in their care, my mother has been well cared for. My mothers frame of mind is not that brilliant at all times, but I know that she herself appreciates all that is being done for her and is happy in general. My mum has always been fairly independent so this time in her life is hard to deal with. With the help and continued support from the carers, we take each day and hope mum will return to being the mum she used to. A big thank you to all staff involved.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Lesley Atkinson, Manager at Brook House responded to this review on 19 Jul 2016:
Thank you for your positive comments. It is a rewarding job and your mum is a pleasure.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Stephen S (Son of Resident) on Friday 24 June 2016. Relates to June 2016.
From the first day (16/3/16) my mother was admitted to Brook House to this date we as a family have been more than happy with the care that has been afforded to her. From dealing with the issues that resulted in her admission to other medical issues that have occurred the home has done everything we could have asked for. The general care and attention she has been given from all at Brook House we cannot fault.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Kevin M (Son of Resident) on Thursday 28 April 2016. Relates to March 2016.
My mother has been a resident for over a year now. She has always been treated with the utmost care and dignity. All the staff are lovely with her and I am particularly delighted with the attitude of the young staff. They are a credit to the management and society. Mum now has her own room which she had always wanted. As a visitor we are always welcomed. My only slight disappointment is the quality of the snack meals (I have not seen the main meals) The sandwich and biscuits can be uninspiring, old people eat so very little and I feel the contents could be regularly higher quality without more cost for the business. Overall I am delighted with the home and feel so lucky.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Laurie W (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 20 April 2016. Relates to March 2016.
My sister attended the review with my mother. The report was thorough and useful. One or two inaccuracies were quickly corrected.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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Review submitted from a Website Submission by Mrs Christine S (Wife of Resident) on Sunday 6 March 2016. Relates to August 2015.
As soon as you walk through the door you know that this is a home which really cares for the residents - all my husband's visitors could feel the welcoming atmosphere. Many of the staff have worked there for years and as it is not a large home, each individual and their needs and desires are known well. The owners and manager are very dedicated indeed.
My husband was very contented at Brook House and I couldn't fault his care in any way. He had dementia and yet was able to get much enjoyment out of the last few months of his life, thanks to the love and fun he was shown.
Either our daughter or myself spent time with his most days and I never observed anything but kindness and respect being shown to each resident. The meals were wholesome and nutritious and he was helped with eating and drinking when it became necessary. At all times the staff remained cheerful and loving.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Kay B (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 15 February 2016. Relates to January 2016.
The staff are brilliant at Brook House, particularly the assistant manager and senior carer. All residents are treated as individuals and given excellent support and care staff have gone out of their way to make my mother feel happy and have been very supportive to me. The food is excellent and my mother now eats heartily whereas previously she was not interested in food. I marked facilities as just satisfactory as there is only one toilet for residents on the ground floor which can sometimes cause frustration. I could not wish for a better place for my mum to receive care in the last years of her life.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Brian W (Son of Resident) on Monday 15 February 2016. Relates to February 2016.
The overall standard of care is good, I feel that my mother is well looked after, safe and happy at Brook House. Administration of medications and access to local doctors surgery, if required, are excellent. Meals and drinks are good, mum often says how much she likes the food. Entertainment and activities can be rather limited (except for the day centre) the garden is nice but, apart from the yard, is not available for use by residents. There used to be some light hearted evening entertainment (bowling, bingo, games)but these seem to have stopped now. Overall I believe the care provided is more than adequate but residents, lives could be made a bit more interesting.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by J R (Nephew of Resident) on Friday 12 February 2016. Relates to February 2016.
From admission the staff have proved to be warm, friendly, supportive, empathetic and peaceful and yet have an upbeat, fun tone where/when appropriate. The setting is easily accessed with adequate parking, access in/out is always observed and time is given on arrival to offer updates or on leaving, to check everything is in order. The bedrooms are characterful, spacious and encouragement to personalise is welcome, anything required is never too much trouble.
The meals look wonderfully appetizing, very individually prepared and offered in a calm, un-rushed manner. Appropriate support always given, in a respectful manner (no standing, chatting over residents) engagement is observed. We regret fully the decision to choose the previous nursing home, but are truly delighted there was a room available at Brook House.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by J W (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 10 February 2016. Relates to February 2016.
We as a family are pleased with every aspect of care our mother receives at Brook House.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Chris U (Son of Resident) on Friday 5 February 2016. Relates to January 2016.
Good personal care shown by the homes staff in relation to on going medical issues experienced by my elderly mother. Concern shown to ensure best possible outcomes for her in the light of her individual situation and in liaising with local healthcare institutions and professionals.
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by P M (Daughter of Resident) on Thursday 4 February 2016. Relates to January 2016.
On entering "Brook House" it is a very friendly and welcoming feeling, staff are very pleasant and helpful. My father has vascular dementia and at times can be very hard to deal with, but they cope with him very well, under the circumstances. Cleanliness in the home is very good and his bedroom is always lovely and clean owing to the care of the staff.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by M W (Niece of Resident) on Thursday 4 February 2016. Relates to January 2016.
The staff were very kind and caring. A higher than average ratio of staff to patient/residents meant that there were always at least 4 or 5 people on duty. Plenty of young care workers as well as older more mature- so a good mix. I liked it that they had pets (2 cats and a dog- chickens in the garden) very home from home environment.
How likely would you be to recommend Brook House? Likely
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There are currently no Care Home Idol entrants who have performed at Brook House