St Marys, in Ipswich, is a purpose-built facility supporting up to 60 older people to live a comfortable lifestyle, as well as offering dementia care. It is located in an idyllic peninsula setting in the village of Holbrook.
The home strives to deliver a range of residential care services, including convalescence care, respite care, trial stays, and long term care for those who can no longer look after themselves.
The St Marys care team gets to know their customers and works with them to organise wellness activities which match individual and group interests, both in the care home and the local community. Each customer’s individual needs are regularly assessed to ensure their care plans meet their lifestyle requirements. Meals are cooked fresh and from locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients where possible by highly trained chefs and kitchen staff.
Anchor is England’s largest provider of housing and care for those over 55 years of age. With almost 50 years’ experience as a not-for-profit provider of services to older people, Anchor reinvests the money it makes into its retirement properties and care homes, to continually raise standards to provide a high-quality service to surpass customer’s expectations.
Group: Anchor
Person in charge: Karen Curle (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services: Suffolk County Council (click for contact details)
Type of Service: Care Home only (Residential Care) – Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned , Registered for a maximum of 60 Service Users
Registered Care Categories*: Dementia • Old Age
Specialist Care Categories: Alzheimer's
Admission Information: Ages 65+.
Single Rooms: 60
Shared Rooms: 0
Rooms with ensuite WC: 60
Facilities & Services: Respite Care • Convalescent Care • Separate Dementia Care Unit • Pets by arrangement • Close to Local shops • Near Public Transport • Lift • Wheelchair access • Gardens for residents • Residents Kitchenette • Phone Point in own room/Mobile • Television point in own room
Directions:
St Marys is situated close to local services and amenities including:
Doctor's surgery within 1 mile.
Local shops within 1 mile.
The nearest hospital is The Ipswich Hospital which is within 5 miles.
Latest Care Quality Commission* Report on St Marys: click here
* Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.
The Review Score of 9.1 (maximum of 10) for St Marys is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.
a) The Average Rating is 4.6 out of 5 from 25 Reviews over all time. This Average Rating is also the rating value for St Marys in Google's Search Results - more info
b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.5 out of 5 from 6 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 4.632 for St Marys is calculated as follows: ( (200 Excellents x 5) + (84 Goods x 4) + (11 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 296 Ratings = 4.632
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 4.5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for St Marys is based on 6 positive Reviews in the last 12 months and is calculated as follows:
3 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 = 4
Target of 12 positive Reviews (60 registered maximum number of service users ÷ 5). 6 Reviews ÷ 12 Target = 0.500
When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
St Marys has a Review Score of 9.1 (9.132) from 25 Reviews
Review submitted from a Scanned Printed Card by L F (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 14 May 2018. Relates to May 2018.
Our mother came to St Marys' at Holbrook in September 2017.
I cannot praise the staff (on all levels) enough.
They are a credit to this home in all aspects of their work.
The highest praise I could give them is to say I actually feel part of a team all working with one aim in mind.
To make all people welcome and involved in the care on every level. (I love these people.)
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Maureen B (Wife of Resident) on Tuesday 23 January 2018. Relates to January 2018.
It is an excellent care home. From the minute you walk in the door, you feel the cosiness, a welcoming feeling with my husband getting the very best of all care. I cannot praise or thank all the staff enough for the excellent care and kindness which is given to my husband.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Clive L (Husband of Resident) on Tuesday 16 January 2018. Relates to December 2017.
This is a very well run nursing home with excellent caring care. I would recommend to anyone the value of this caring home.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Garry D (Son of Resident) on Wednesday 20 December 2017. Relates to December 2017.
I was very impressed with St Mary's when compared to other homes checked by my wife and I. I have been very happy since my mother moved there with all aspects of staffing and care, everybody is really helpful and caring. Keep up the good work!
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Cicely W (Wife of Resident) on Tuesday 19 December 2017. Relates to December 2017.
St Marys is a very happy and caring home. The staff are friendly and helpful and I have no worries in leaving my husband in their care. One minor fault is the laundry service as all items appear to be washed together and I soon learnt to replace clothes at cheap outlets. There also seems a tendency for items to go missing even though I put names on them.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Likely
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Karen Curle, Home Manager at St Marys responded to this review on 28 Dec 2017:
Thank you for your review of St Marys Care Home. It is really great to hear the positive comments about the staff team, which we will share with them at our next team meeting.
We are sorry to hear about your experience of our laundry service and are in the process of reviewing our laundry practices and will be communicating our planned improvements at our next resident and relatives meeting.
Thank you for sharing your experience and I hope your husband continues to enjoy living at St Marys.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Cynthia D (Daughter of Resident) on Tuesday 17 October 2017. Relates to October 2017.
Mum who is 93, a coeliac and suffers from osteoarthritis, came to St Mary's following a month in hospital, resulting from poor management of her coeliac condition at her previous home. We had been aware of St Marys through a previous stay for respite care, and we had been pleased with the care provided. She has now been in St Mary's for 4 months and her health, mobility and spirit are improved beyond our hopes and expectations.
The attention to managing her gluten-free diet, providing stimulation by way of the activities, care of personal hygiene and interaction with the management and staff, has given mum a renewed zest for life. The chef regularly discusses her diet and ensures that she has a choice and varied meals at all times. We can not praise the St Marys staff enough for giving back mum her dignity, and her family peace of mind she is in safe and caring hands.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Sue W (Partner of Resident) on Monday 15 May 2017. Relates to May 2017.
My partner went into St Marys in February, he has settled in really well.
The staff are lovely, really friendly and always ready to listen if I have any worries.
The care and dedication to the residents is first class.
I am very happy with the all round support my partner gets.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by M H (Great-Niece of Resident) on Friday 12 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
My aunt was sat comfortably, on an air cushion with a side table within reach and where she could choose to look out of the window or watch the TV.
I was pleased to find she had moved rooms, where the decor and furniture were new, fresh and clean.
My only concern is the size of the room, taking into account the use of a hoist. Perhaps repositioning the bed might help? Her care plan was up to date and she looked clean and dressed appropriately.
I am happy with the care my aunt is receiving, thank you.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Gillian K (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 10 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
We moved Mum to St Mary's from sheltered accommodation due to her worsening dementia. From the day she arrived the care, she has had has been first class. Unfortunately, her health deteriorated rapidly and after eight weeks she sadly passed away. I cannot praise the staff enough for their constant care and support of not just mum but me as well. I practically moved in so I could be with her to the end and they made sure I had food, drinks, mattress and bedding and showering facilities. All the staff looked after us and I will miss them. Constable is such a happy, uplifting place to be.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Nigel B (Son-in-law of Resident) on Monday 8 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
My mother-in-law moved into St Marys' in February 2017 and shortly after was transferred to the dementia unit. The home has a very comfortable feel about it and all the staff were extremely nice and caring.
The home is currently undergoing full redecoration but this has had minimal effect on the day to day experience for the residents. Sadly my mother-in-law's health declined very quickly and she passed away on 24th April. My sister-in-law sent the last week three days with her at the home. The staff supported my sister-n-law in a very caring and sympathetic manner.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Christine P (Daughter-in-law of Resident) on Wednesday 3 May 2017. Relates to April 2017.
My relative is being very well cared for. The staff are supportive, kind and caring. The home is comfortable and clean and very homely.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Keith P (Son of Resident) on Wednesday 3 May 2017. Relates to March 2017.
All the staff are excellent and look after my mum with care and dignity. Mum is often saying how lovely they are.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by N B (Wife of Resident) on Tuesday 28 March 2017. Relates to March 2017.
My husband has settled in St Marys and seems happy and interacts with other residents. The manager and carers are attentive and supportive to me and my family. They also keep up informed of his medical condition.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by S H (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 22 March 2017. Relates to February 2017.
In all respects; keeping us updated, looking after their needs and calling doctors, the staff are all excellent. Mum feels so safe and happy. The whole family is very happy with the kindness and helpfulness of staff. To provide all this I think a lot of the credit also goes to the manager.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Helen D (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 22 March 2017. Relates to March 2017.
My father and mother moved to St Mary's in December. Sadly dad was too frail and poorly and died in January, but the compassion given to mum and dad was and is superb, they also gave my husband and I great sympathy and kindness during our loss and continue to support help my mother.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Lyn L (Daughter of Resident) on Thursday 16 March 2017. Relates to February 2017.
Mum is well looked after. Personal care is now going well. The past few months has seen acceptance of this on mum's part which is exactly what I had hoped for. I have no complaints about the staff who are great.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Michelle D (Daughter of Resident) on Tuesday 5 July 2016. Relates to June 2016.
An excellent care provider. Mum's needs are always met with care and dignity. Any issues are always sorted out immediately. Management and staff are excellent, approachable and part of our lives. My mum is very happy and content.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Jinny (Sister of Resident) on Monday 4 July 2016. Relates to June 2016.
These last 2 days I have been visiting my sister, she recently moved into residential dementia care, as I come over 400 miles away I have spent 10 hours a day locked into a ward. Dementia patients all have their own life stories and I have grown to know and admire them immensely.
From the 100 year old lady who rules the house as queen to the gentleman (once a mechanic) who has an invisible tape measure and does mime maintenance on everything to the other gentleman who reassures everyone of the love he and his wife share and how he is going back home to live tomorrow!!
The lady with her handbag and coat on, always ready to leave. My sister is unable to communicate but I feel very happy that she is here. Working with dementia is challenging but I have now seen the total dedication, love and patience the staff show at all times. Tensions and situations can become volatile very quickly and staff deal with everyone with grace, understanding and love.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Anthony L (Private Carer of Resident) on Tuesday 28 June 2016. Relates to June 2016.
Took time choosing placement for my ex-wife who has a dementia related illness (aphasia) and were appalled at some of the homes we visited. St Mary's was a blessing and faultless, from building/layout, and staff were excellent and we had no qualms in accepting this for the person in our care (her son, sister and myself). Subsequent visits and staff care and help have been impeccable.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Paul K (Son of Resident) on Tuesday 3 May 2016. Relates to April 2016.
My mum was a resident at St Marys Holbrook for 18 months, she was suffering from Alzheimer's, bit still got around the home with an aid of a zimmer frame. She was very happy in her own little world and got on very well with all of the staff.
The staff were all very good with her and treated her with great care, dignity and very patient when she was confused and awkward. As her only son I was very pleased with everything the home did for mum and myself.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Jill (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 25 April 2016. Relates to April 2016.
St Marys is a lovely welcoming home. My mother is very happy here and I haven't seen here dance like I saw her dance in the corridor for years. The food looks good and there is always plenty to drink whenever I have visited. All the staff are helpful and kind and very friendly. My mothers room is bright and cheerful and clean, the gardens are lovely.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by G R (Wife of Resident) on Monday 25 April 2016. Relates to April 2016.
The staff are lovely they look after my husband with care and love, they are always ready to help me with any worries or problems I might have. I am pleased I found St Marys.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Louise (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 20 April 2016. Relates to April 2016.
The care and support that my dad receives at St Marys is very much appreciated by our family. All the staff, at every level, treat my dad with dignity respect and kindness. Any concerns or worries we have had about my dad's care have been addressed immediately by the home care manager in a prompt and effective manner. I would have no hesitation in recommending St Marys, it is a very special place!
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Tamzin (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 1 February 2016. Relates to December 2015.
My mother lives on the dementia wing at St Mary's Holbrook. The home is clean and pleasant. My mother's room was painted in a colour she liked. Above all the carers are all lovely caring people, who do all they can to help the residents. I would not hesitate in recommending this care home. Which I have already done.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Brae Dog (Daughter of Resident) on Tuesday 22 December 2015. Relates to November 2014.
Mum seems very settled at St Mary's after spending some time in respite care at two other homes which she did not like. All the residents look well cared for, tidily dressed, hair done etc. Staff generally seem cheerful and busy, but not too busy to help us if needed e.g finding batteries for TV remote control. Mum complains about the food, but to us the menus look varied and interesting so we think this is just her way.
How likely would you be to recommend St Marys? Likely
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3 Bed Vacancies
posted 16 hours ago
We currently have three care vacancies at St Marys. Please contact us directly for further information.