Heron Court

198 Brentwood Road, Herongate, Brentwood CM13 3PN
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9.8 92 Reviews
  • Heron Court, Brentwood
Heron Court is a listed building full of charm and character. Its impressive front door waits to open you to welcome you into its warmth and friendliness. The gardens are lush and green and offer space to walk or sit quietly and enjoy the day and especially the warmth of summer.

Although not a modern building it provides all the comforts of home, good food, good company, and friendly staff. There are many activities and it is your choice of what you do each day but the team ensure there is always something. Your visit will give carers the opportunity to discuss how best they can meet your needs and the chance to find out those important things that make you the unique individual that you are. Trained staff are available 24 hours a day to ensure a stay at Heron Court is a wonderful experience.

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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 35 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • Convalescent Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Television point in own room

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Residential Care: £1350 – £1588
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: £1350 – £1588
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care: £1450 – £1688
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: £1450 – £1688

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Heron Court to find out the exact price for your requirements.

Funding Types Accepted

  • Self Funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Carly Whipps (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Admission is confirmed upon a satisfactory pre-admission assessment and confirmation that the needs of the potential resident can be met.
  • Ages 45+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No
  • Number of floors: 3

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (31)
  • Couples/Companion Rooms (2)

Visiting

  • Upon arriving at the home, please press the buzzer on the intercom. A member of staff will greet you shortly. The home kindly request that you sign the guestbook upon both arrival and departure. This helps maintain an accurate record of who is in the building.
    In the event of an emergency, please follow the designated safety protocols provided. Your cooperation ensures everyone's safety.

Parking

  • The home includes dedicated parking spaces.

Heron Court Reviews (92)

Total of 92, showing 1-20
9.8

Heron Court has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.844) out of 10, based on 36 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Heron Court has 92 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 70
  • 17
  • 5
  • 0
  • 0

Date Published

92
12
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Review from Andrea S (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad has been a resident at Heron Court since November and we couldn't be happier. The staff have gone above and beyond to ensure he has been cared for with love and dignity. The entertainment staff never disappoint with coming up with some genius game to play or a fun outing. He clearly loves the
food as he has put on some much needed weight and is always busy doing something when we come to see him. Special thank you to two members of staff in particular, you clearly love what you do and we can't thank you enough for for making our dad's time with you fun and letting him nick your lunches and taking him for ice cream!

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Review from Molly C (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 16 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Such a welcoming home. Staff really listen to us as a family about needs and wishes. Open visiting hours which makes it so much easier for everyone to visit around work etc. staff are so friendly and helpful.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you so much for a kind review it really does go far for us!

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Review from J H (Son of Resident) published on 16 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The home administrator and the team have always been remarkably kind and professional. Their care and diligence never fails to inspire me. Like so many, having gone through the process of finding a suitable home for a loved one, we found the process to be very positive. Highly recommended.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you so much for your kind words. Your dad is a bright spirit in the home, always.

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Review from Gary W (Son of Resident) published on 16 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We had another family member living at Heron Court. So we knew this was the right place for dad to be.
From day one, the staff could not have been kinder and more welcoming to Dad, and to us, his family. All the staff actively engage with him, spend time chatting with him, and care for and look after
him. He seems very happy and settled in Heron Court, and this has made it far less stressful to admit him. A huge thank you to the manager and all the team for their help.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for the compliment. we are all very thankful for your kind words and we are happy to have you all back in the home.

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Review from Emily H (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Heron Court and the home administrator specifically put me at so much ease caring for my dad with dementia. He feels so calm in the home and they genuinely care for the residents which is so rare to find . Thank you for all you do for us and my Dad!

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Review from Debra D (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Heron court cared for my uncle for over 10 years and now my dad is a resident. There are a lot of staff still there and this proves how well the home is managed. All staff are so welcoming and go above and beyond. There are activities to help keep the residents active and alert.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

What a lovely compliment, thank you so much. We are thrilled to have your dad with us after knowing him for so long. We are also thrilled to have you all back with us too.

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Review from Alfie W (Grandson of Resident) published on 10 July 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The home have taken such amazing care of my grandad with his dementia and it truly is a wonderful place! The staff are so friendly and supportive and have a real passion for the care of their residents

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Review from Peter W (Son of Resident) published on 23 May 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My Dad was admitted to Heron Court between 20th March and 30th April for respite care, as my Mum was convalescing post-operation at home. From day one, the staff could not have been kinder and more welcoming to Dad, and to us, his family. Whilst my Dad preferred to stay in his room most of the time
as he has mobility issues, all the staff actively engaged with him, spent time chatting with him, and cared for and looked after him. He was very happy in Heron Court, and this made it far less stressful to admit him, albeit only for a short time.


Huge thank you to the manager and all the team for their help and understanding - THANK YOU !!

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for such a beautiful compliment. We all often think about him and we always play 'in a while crocodile' which reminds us of him. I hope he's well and if he ever needs respite again he knows where we are!

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Review from M C (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 16 May 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Just moved my Mother in Law into Heron Court as the care home she was in was not meeting her needs. She was being neglected.
What a difference from the minute we walked in we were warmly greeted by staff members. Mum actually smiled at them, the first smile for a long time.
Mum has always liked her
own company and is not good at mixing but they took her into the dining room to eat in her wheelchair.
This in it self is a landmark as she has been bed bound for weeks . A shower hair wash etc was planned and we left her there .


When we visited the following day we saw MUM transformed clean and taking it all in sat in the lounge.


It's early days for us a family but what a excellent start in Heron Court. Seeing her in their VE DAY VIDEO singing outside in the garden is amazing for us as a family. It's a totally different life for her now. At the moment the family are so relieved to have found Heron Court.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for this lovely review. We appreciate how hard it has been for your family and we are so thrilled to have made a difference to not just your mums life but yours too. You are all a delight to look after!

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Review from Gary L (Son of Resident) published on 24 April 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Always excellent care provided to my mother, with first class communication from all members of the office staff. The grounds are always tended well making for a pleasant surrounding to meet my mother if she wants to go outside.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you Gary for the lovely compliment, much appreciated!

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Review from Christine W (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum has been at Heron Court for a year now which has gone so quickly! She is settled now and says she is happy and has no complaints as the staff look after her. She isnt one for joining in but she does occasionally which is lovely to see. The staff are all very kind and friendly and look like they
enjoy working there and always make an effort to dress up when there is a party happening. Thank you all for caring for mum we really appreciate your hard work. Ps whens the next quiz ??

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for such a lovely compliment, your mum is a brilliant character and we are having a brilliant time looking after her! The next quiz will be St Patrick's day.. lock the date in!

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Review from J O (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We were worried about putting mum in a home, because she never wanted to very independent.
But the staff have been wonderful it took a while for mum to settle but it is the illness that changes her.
We are very pleased with the home.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you so much for your review - mum is a diamond and we are happy to have her.

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Review from D W (Son of Resident) published on 20 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The home made a real effort at Christmas and we had some happy events like dancing, teas, cheeses, quizzes and Christmas music. The staff also dressed up and gave each resident a present. The staff member as Father Christmas was amazing.

Reply from Carly Whipps, Home Manager at Heron Court

Hi, Thank you for this review. Staff really appreciate the recognition of their efforts.

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Review from L S (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 November 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Fabulous staff, beautiful home and gardens. Can't recommend enough. 5 star. Thank you.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

This review is really appreciated! Thank you so very much.

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Review from C C (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 November 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Mum has had a few concerns recently and the staff have dealt with them excellently. Most of the staff are really friendly, some are a little quiet and less confident. The care mum receives is very good. She does not tend to mix in the lounge as most residents have dementia and mum does not. The staff
are very busy and do not always have time for a chat which would be nice. She has her iPad for company but sometimes gets a little lonely. The staff are very busy and do not always have time for a chat which would be nice. One of ladies from Admin took mum out a couple of times for a walk that was really lovely and mum enjoyed it. Probably a bit cold now.

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for this review. We are making sure staff are having chats with mum throughout the day which is recorded. I hope this helps.

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Review from P H (Son of Resident) published on 26 November 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent care all round. Many thanks

Reply from Carly Whips, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you for your kind review! All of us at Heron appreciate it.

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Review from Lorraine D (Daughter of Resident) published on 8 November 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

As Mum's condition continues to deteriorate, the staff have shown nothing but patience and kindness whilst providing everything she needs. She is peaceful and safe and that means everything to her family.

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Review from J F (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I visited my mum last week and was welcomed by her smiling face when she spotted me. The carers were engaging the residents in various activities in the main lounge and the atmosphere was very friendly and warm.
The reception area, main lounge, gardens, and outside patio areas were bursting with beautiful
flowers and all decorated with bunting. It is so nice to see the effort that the care home goes to, to enrich the environmental surroundings of the home, for their residents.
The cleanliness of the place is very good and should also be mentioned, as it makes a huge difference to the residents.
My mum is happy and said she is pleased to be living there.

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Review from Sarah W (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 3 July 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

What can I say other than what an amazing team? In particular, the Administrator from the very start helped and supported us with a very challenging unco-operative social worker. She dealt with him in a clear, concise and professional manner, almost doing his job! Making the emotional journey for us
as a family so much less stressful. Supporting us all and there’s a lot of us! Her support and understanding of the situation were outstanding, she understood my mother-in-law instantly and she would co-operate with the Administrator! I can’t praise this young professional woman enough, we need more Administrators in the world to make it a much better place. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Sadly my mother-in-law was only in the home for a short period before she passed away but we witnessed on a daily basis how the Administrator was a ray of sunshine to all the residents and their families too. May the team, but in particular the Administrator carry on being so wonderful for people who are unable to continue to live independently.

Reply from Carly Whipps, Home Manager at Heron Court

Thank you so much for the review, it's very much appreciated and we were so sad to lose her so soon. We wish you all the very best and hope to see you again soon.

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Review from J A (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum has only been in the care home for 4 weeks, therefore my findings are limited. The staff are always very friendly and helpful. Very informative when I call, suggesting different ways to keep Mum busy. She has taken up knitting again after many years, which she seems to enjoy.

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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.844)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.844) out of 10 for Heron Court is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 36 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 35 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Care Home is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.844 for Heron Court is calculated as follows: ( (367 Excellents x 5) + (46 Goods x 4) + (10 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 423 Ratings = 4.844

  • b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Heron Court is based on 35 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 35 registered maximum number of service users is 7, which has been reached with 35 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 28 May 2024

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Good

Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.

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Bed Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (10)

Meet the Team (6)

Carly

Carly Whipps

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2002

I have worked at Heron Court since 2002, starting as a Kitchen Assistant, Care Team Leader, Administrator and now Home Manager. I enjoy my job and have a passion for helping people. Heron Court is a lovely place to work with our well trained friendly staff who have good relationships with all our residents. We are often complimented on our relaxed friendly atmosphere and how homely the feel is when visitors walk into the home.


Heron Court was built in 1892 so still has plenty of character and original features which all who visit appreciate. Thank you for taking the time to consider us, and please feel free to visit to have a look around!

Michelle

Michelle Tiganasu

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2008

I’m Michelle, and I have been with the team for 16 years, serving as the Deputy Manager. My passion lies in supporting service users every day, helping them feel valued and cared for. I take great pride in ensuring that the job is done properly, and I’m always happy to be with them, offering my support.


One of my key achievements has been learning about dementia and how to provide the best care for people affected by it. I hold both Level 2 and Level 3 NVQs, which have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to excel in my role.


I also love dressing up for all occasions and parties, no matter how I look—because if others are happy, that’s what matters most to me. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, travelling, and listening to music. These activities bring me joy and balance in my life.

Shannon

Shannon Whipps

Job Title: Home Administrator

Joined: 2013

I'm Shannon, Home Administrator at Heron Court.


With 11 years of experience as the Home Administrator at Heron Court, I am deeply passionate about creating a joyful and fulfilling environment for our residents. My greatest joy in life is seeing their smiles and ensuring they live their best lives. I hold a diploma in Knowledge of Policing and a Level 3 NVQ in Health & Social Care, both of which have equipped me with a strong foundation to provide top-quality care.


I love adding a touch of fun to everyday life, often dressing up in fancy dress to make people laugh and brighten their day. I don't take myself too seriously and believe that laughter is one of life's best remedies.


Outside of work, I am an avid car enthusiast and often spend my weekends driving in my pyjamas. Above all, I cherish time spent with my family and our dog, as they are the heart of my world.

Ariel

Ariel Da Costa

Job Title: Lifestyle Coordinator

Joined: 2024

Hi, I’m Ariel, and I’ve had the pleasure of being the Lifestyle Coordinator at Heron Court for the past five months. What I love most about my role is the opportunity to spend quality time with each resident and create personalised experiences that bring joy to their lives. I’m passionate about bringing a sense of fun and excitement to our community, and I’m never afraid to embrace my playful side. Whether it's being a clown or simply brightening someone’s day, I’m always ready to make a difference!

Artur

Artur Kwiatkowski

Job Title: Chef

Joined: 2009

I am the cook at Heron Court, where I've proudly served for 15 years. What makes my role special to me is that it is not just a job but a true passion. I am deeply invested in every aspect of the industry—from the food itself to working alongside my talented kitchen team to the service provided by our dedicated servers. I hold a Level 3 Award in culinary skills, which has helped me refine my craft over the years. Having gained early experience by running my own Polish restaurant when I was younger, I’ve built a solid foundation in the culinary world. Outside of work, I enjoy watching science fiction films, classic Polish cinema, and various series, which offer a creative escape from the kitchen.

Constantin Iulian

Constantin Iulian Zorocliu

Job Title: Maintenance

Joined: 2009

Hi, my name is Constahtih, and I have worked at Heron Court for 15 years. I enjoy helping everyone—whether it's ensuring that residents eat and drink well, are dressed nicely, or simply look their best.


One of my proudest achievements has been learning about dementia, and I also hold an NVQ Level 2 in Care.


When I hear music, I can't help but sing and dance along! In my spare time, I love fishing and travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heron Court

What types of Care is Heron Court registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Physical Disability & Visual / Hearing Impairment are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Heron Court have?

There are 31 Single Rooms and 2 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Heron Court?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens & Television point in own room are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Heron Court to the centre of Brentwood?

3.0 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Heron Court to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Heron Court has an Enhanced Service - more info.