Gittisham Hill House is a charming converted manor house set within its own 12 acre parkland, in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Situated within Gittisham Hill Park Retirement Village, close to the bustling market town of Honiton in Devon, the home and village form a thriving community within a beautiful setting.
This nursing and residential care home focuses on supporting residents who require nursing and/or personal care and who have some degree of confusion, dementia and memory loss.
There is a calm and relaxed atmosphere in the home. The environment of care has been adapted to meet the needs of residents and the home has areas of interest for people to enjoy including the dining room with its beautiful views.
The care home has a team of kind, friendly and professional staff who provide sensitive and supportive care.
Group: HC-One
Person in charge: Carol Dight (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services: Devon County Council (click for contact details)
Type of Service: Care Home only (Residential Care) – Privately Owned , Registered for a maximum of 39 Service Users
Registered Care Categories*: Dementia • Old Age
Specialist Care Categories: Alzheimer's • Epilepsy • Hearing Impairment & Deafness • Multiple Sclerosis • Orthopaedic • Parkinson's Disease • Stroke • Visual Impairment
Admission Information: Contact Carol Dight. Ages 60+.
Single Rooms: 37
Shared Rooms: 1
Rooms with ensuite WC: 27
Facilities & Services: Palliative Care • Respite Care • Convalescent Care • Physiotherapy • Own GP if required • Own Furniture if required • Smoking not permitted • Near Public Transport • Minibus or other transport • Lift • Wheelchair access • Gardens for residents • Phone Point in own room/Mobile • Television point in own room
Latest Care Quality Commission* Report on Gittisham Hill House Care Home: 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 Gittisham Hill House Care Home 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 19 Reviews over all time. This Average Rating is also the rating value for Gittisham Hill House Care Home in Google's Search Results - more info
b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5 out of 5 from 19 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 4.54 for Gittisham Hill House Care Home is calculated as follows: ( (136 Excellents x 5) + (74 Goods x 4) + (13 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 224 Ratings = 4.54
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 Gittisham Hill House Care Home is based on 19 positive Reviews in the last 12 months and is calculated as follows:
3 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 + 0.25 = 4
Target of 7.8 positive Reviews (39 registered maximum number of service users ÷ 5). 19 Reviews ÷ 7.8 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.
Gittisham Hill House Care Home has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.540) from 19 Reviews
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Beverley T (Granddaughter of Resident) on Tuesday 16 January 2018. Relates to January 2018.
My grandmother had complex needs which were very well dealt with at the home. She could be rather abusive and rude at times but was always cared for in a polite and dignified way.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Linda T (Daughter of Resident) on Tuesday 16 January 2018. Relates to October 2017.
My mother spent her last years at Gittisham Hill House. I cannot fault the care she was given from everyone, even though she was difficult to deal with at times, she was still treated with care and respect. Gittisham is the nicest and cleanest I have seen, and I did look at quite a few. I would recommend this care home to everyone.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Richard T (Son of Resident) on Monday 18 December 2017. Relates to December 2017.
Mum is happy in her surroundings. I feel that she is in a safe and secure environment and is well looked after.
All staff have a real connection with residents and display genuine love and affection. Standards of care together with facilities, activities and entertainment have all improved considerably since the new manager took over earlier this year.
Personal care, such as cutting fingernails, care of spectacles and dressing in the morning could be improved.
As a son, and coupled with family dynamics, I feel that my concerns and need for updates on Mum's health and care needs have been overlooked in the past while first (and sometimes only) contact is with my sister. Interestingly, I find this more of an issue with social services, GPs etc. The manager has responded positively to my concerns on this matter.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 18 Dec 2017:
Thank you so much, Richard, for your comments, and I will pass on your feedback to the team. I am really pleased to see the 'even better if' feedback regarding fingernails and care of spectacles, and we will ensure this is acted on; we recently purchased 6 x manicure sets for the home so there is no excuse for ensuring excellent personal care at all times. Thank you again.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Susie B (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 15 November 2017. Relates to November 2017.
I can't commend the staff at Gittisham Hill House enough for the way they have made my mother's move from her previous care home so easy. Everyone has been so welcoming to her and she feels safe and happy in her new surroundings. The manager and deputy manager have been particularly sensitive to all her needs. Thank you!
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by A P (Wife of Resident) on Wednesday 27 September 2017. Relates to September 2017.
Staff are always friendly and courteous. The patients are helped at all times. The patients look upon staff almost as substitute families. If a Dr is needed, it is done very promptly and I am kept informed.
Management is excellent, they contact family on visits and any queries are welcomed. Patients have activities - quizzes which are stimulating for them.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 27 Sep 2017:
Thank you very much for your kind review; we still have things to make 'even better' but I know the team will be very thankful for your review. Carol.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by L L (Power of Attorney Solicitor of Resident) on Tuesday 12 September 2017. Relates to August 2017.
The new manager has positioned herself within the residential home and is, therefore, more accessible to residents, family and staff. It has become more homely and friendly. Improvements being made all the time.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 12 Sep 2017:
Dear Lorna,
Thank you very much for your review which will help us make Gittisham even better. I know you understand that we are still 'work in progress' but striving to get excellent in all our categories. Thank you again for the feedback.
Kind Regards,
Carol
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Amy H (Relative of Resident) on Tuesday 12 September 2017. Relates to July 2017.
Always clean. Residents are very well looked after, clean fresh clothes, tidy groomed hair and fantastic entertainment daily, with trips out. My family member joined this care home a very poorly lady, the first class care in this home, with the in-house nurse and daily visits from the doctor, has brought her back to life.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 12 Sep 2017:
Dear Amy,
Thank you very much for your review, and I will ensure that your feedback is included in our Staff Meeting this afternoon; the team, I know, will be thrilled. If there are any even better (if's) to make care even better then I hope you will let me know, but again my sincere thanks.
Carol.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by G L (Friend of Resident) on Wednesday 6 September 2017. Relates to August 2017.
New manager is improving facilities and activities in the home. There is a more welcoming feel to the home.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Louise C (Daughter of Resident) on Friday 18 August 2017. Relates to July 2017.
Choosing a care home for my father had to meet all the qualities of care, facilities, cleanliness, caring nurses and staff and room facilities, basically what equated to a platinum care home for my dad. After visiting 26 care homes within a 20-mile radius of Sidmouth, Gittisham Hall was the only one that met these important criteria. Not only for my dad but the whole family are happy and content, knowing my dad is really well looked after, safe and happy. Thank you Gittisham.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 22 Aug 2017:
Many thanks Louise for your super review; I am so pleased that we continue to meet all of Dad's needs. I will ensure the team sees your feedback, and again my sincere thanks. Carol
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Linda W (Daughter of Resident) on Thursday 10 August 2017. Relates to August 2017.
My mother has been at Gittisham Hill House for 8 and a half months and has found it difficult to settle until now. Her main worry is missing her garden and not feeling the care home is like a "home" more an institution.
However, the new manager is certainly trying to make better changes, She is an inspiration and because of her, my mother is beginning to enjoy her life (phew!) need more outside space, more colour in furnishings, more activities - stimulation.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 10 Aug 2017:
Thank you very much for your kind review of Gittisham Hill House, and the care we provide. I will ensure the team see your feedback, and thank you for your comments; we are 'work in progress' we know, but always striving to do better, so thank you again for taking the time and trouble to send your review, and letting us know the 'even better if's' which we can, and are already, putting into action. Thank you again.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Josephine B (Relative of Resident) on Thursday 10 August 2017. Relates to August 2017.
Wonderful all round care, very impressive. I can't describe the improvement in three months.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 10 Aug 2017:
Dear Josephine, thank you very much indeed for your review, and such lovely feedback. We still have some 'even better if's' to achieve, but thank you for your Review, I know the 'Gittisham Team' will appreciate your feedback too. Thank you again. Carol
Review submitted from a Postal Card by M L (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 19 July 2017. Relates to July 2017.
My mother has only been in care for 6 weeks having lived with myself and my husband before hand. She has settled down well and likes the staff.
The team have also helped me to come to terms with the fact that I cannot look after my mother myself due to the progression of dementia.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 19 Jul 2017:
Thank you for your kind review. We know it is early days for both you and Mum, but it is lovely to see how settled she has become, and we are glad that we have been able to help you as a family too - caring for our residents is also about caring for their families and I am glad that we have been able to help you during this period. Thank you again.
Review submitted from a Website Submission by H P (Niece of Resident) on Tuesday 18 July 2017. Relates to July 2017.
I am very happy with the care provided to my Aunt.
She is settled at Gittisham, is kept clean and dressed in a thoughtful manner. Staff demonstrate that they understand my Aunt's preferences and her personality. Her room is kept spotless with clothes neat and tidy in cupboards and drawers. When we bring flowers, staff will take time to find an appropriate vase for her room and they are kept watered and tended. My Aunt's particular needs are cared for well. When she has falls, we are informed promptly and she is well cared for.
Our family are made welcome when visiting and staff are happy to discuss our concerns. The care home is always clean when I visit and I see staff wearing protective aprons when serving refreshments.
It has been pleasing recently to see plenty of staff in living areas, garden being used, doors open and to see staff taking residents out for walks.
I've put good against areas I don't have enough knowledge of to give excellent.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 18 Jul 2017:
Thank you very much for your kind review and your comments which we will pass back to the team. I am glad that the increased usage of the garden and outings is proving popular. Thank you again.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Alexander S (Grandson of Resident) on Thursday 13 July 2017. Relates to July 2017.
Clean, organised and friendly. The staff truly know and care for my Grandfather.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 13 Jul 2017:
Alexander, a sincere thank you for reviewing Gittisham Hill House, and the care that your Grandfather receives. I will ensure that the staff are aware of the review, and your comments. We don't always get it right, but it is fabulous to hear when we do. Thank you again.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by P C (Daughter of Resident) on Monday 10 July 2017. Relates to July 2017.
Mum is happy at Giittisham Hill House and is looked after well. I would recommend this care home to any family requiring secure accommodation and caring staff for a loved one.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 11 Jul 2017:
Thank you very much for your review. We are keen to ensure that all of our areas reach an excellent rating, so any feedback you can give about how we reach excellent will be very much appreciated. Thank you again for taking the time and trouble to add a review, from myself and the team.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by D E (Son-in-law of Resident) on Wednesday 5 July 2017. Relates to June 2017.
Good support over the last 18 months since mother-in-law became a resident. Good facilities if residents are able to take part, nice now that the gardens are accessible but needs a ramp for wheelchairs. Some furniture and rooms need a bit of updating due to wear and tear. Always kept clean, front entrance needs attention (i.e. paintwork)
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 05 Jul 2017:
Thank you very much for your kind review; we are striving to make life 'even better' for our Residents so your comments are very helpful. There is a 'refurbishment plan' in place for the areas you mention, and our focus has been on making areas accessible, the ramp for wheelchairs is a very helpful observation and we will action immediately. The porch area has been identified as needing attention as you say, so this is in the plan for this year. Thank you again for your comments helping us to continually improve.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by Louise S (Daughter of Resident) on Wednesday 28 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
My father has been a resident for 4 years, he is nearly 96 years old. No matter what time of day I visit, the welcome is always warm (from staff) and dad is happy. The staff are endlessly patient and kind with my father whose behaviour can be challenging on occasion. Whilst busy the staff tend to find time to chat and update me on my father's condition. Other residents generally seem relaxed, happy and well cared for.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Review submitted from a Postal Card by Maureen M (Wife of Resident) on Tuesday 27 June 2017. Relates to December 2016.
My husband was welcomed in March and settled well. The staff treated him kindly and with humour, especially when he asked for a beer or glass of red wine! He was always dressed well and shaving and manicures were fine. The lady running the activities worked hard to make the events enjoyable and appropriate. He enjoyed his meals and I was always offered coffee or tea. The atmosphere was peaceful in what could be difficult situations.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Likely
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Carol Dight, Home Manager at Gittisham Hill House Care Home responded to this review on 18 Jul 2017:
Thank you Maureen for your kind words and taking the time to add a review. It is appreciated. We continue to look for ways to continually improve and feedback is always welcome, thank you.
Review submitted from a Postal Card by A S (Relative of Resident) on Tuesday 27 June 2017. Relates to June 2017.
We had to find a care home after our friend's stay in the hospital - advised by the hospital doctors.
Our first choice was Gittisham Hill House due to its reputation and a close friend's experience.
So delighted they had a room available.
How likely would you be to recommend Gittisham Hill House Care Home? Extremely Likely
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Bed Vacancies
posted 08 May 2018
Please contact us for information regarding our bed availability
There are currently no Care Home Idol entrants who have performed at Gittisham Hill House Care Home