
Staff are caring, patient, kind, they tick all the boxes!S C(Daughter of Resident/Service User)

I am extremely happy with the care my mother receives at Birch AbbeyRita J(Daughter of Resident/Service User)


Staff are caring, patient, kind, they tick all the boxes!S C(Daughter of Resident/Service User)

I am extremely happy with the care my mother receives at Birch AbbeyRita J(Daughter of Resident/Service User)


Birch Abbey is a warm and inviting care home that is part of the Dovehaven family, providing exceptional care in a comfortable and nurturing environment.
Situated in the seaside town of Southport, Birch Abbey offers a range of tailored care services, including residential, dementia, and respite care. The dedicated team ensures that every resident feels valued, supported, and part of the Dovehaven community.
The home features spacious and beautifully designed living areas,...
Care Provided by Birch Abbey
Primary Care Categories
- Older Person Care
- Dementia
- Mental Health Condition
- Physical Disability
Length of Stay
- Permanent Care
- Respite Care
Care Types Provided
- Nursing Care
- Dementia Residential Care
- Dementia Nursing Care
- For a maximum of 60 Service Users
Dementia Care TypesMild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
Mild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
- Mild Dementia
- Moderate Dementia
- Advanced/Complex Dementia
Other Care Provided
- Parkinson's Disease
- Stroke
- Palliative / End of Life Care
- Convalescent Care
- Day Care
Facilities
- Own Furniture if required
- Smoking not permitted
- Close to Local shops
- Near Public Transport
- Lift
- Wheelchair Access
- Gardens
- Bar/Café
- Residents Kitchenette
- Phone Point in own room
- Television point in own room
- Residents Internet Access
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Please note that fees are starting from prices. The team at Birch Abbey will be happy to provide full guidance on individual care needs, room choice, and funding options, ensuring families receive clear and tailored information to support their decision-making.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Birch Abbey for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Contact Birch Abbey to confirm what's included and get a personalised quote:
Funding Types Accepted
- Self-Funding (Private)
- Local Authority with Top-up
- Local Authority
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
Support you may be entitled to
- If you chose a care home based in England, you may be eligible for NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC), which helps cover the cost of nursing. This is worth £267.68 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.
Good to Know
Group / Owner
- Dovehaven
- Private Owned
Person in charge
- Rachel Smalley (Home Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Mixed (no single-gender units)
- Ages 50+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: Yes
- Last Refurbishment: 2013
Room Information
- Single Rooms (60)
Visiting
- At Dovehaven, families and friends are always welcome, and the team actively encourage regular visits as part of their person-centred approach to care. The team works closely with loved ones to ensure they remain involved and informed, supporting strong and meaningful relationships with residents.
Parking
- Birch Abbey has a small private car park, however parking is freely available on the residential road outside of the home.
Birch Abbey Reviews (41)
Birch Abbey has a Review Score of 9.4 (9.428) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Birch Abbey has 41 reviews.
I cannot speak too highly of Birch Abbey. Mum was treated with respect and dignity at all times. From the minute Mum arrived I saw the genuine & caring interest from all staff, and everyone was committed to providing excellent and appropriate care, tailored to Mums health needs, personality and interests. Mum was only a resident for a few weeks and I was assured & confident in the wonderful care provided to the end. A wonderful team without exception
Thank you for your kind words. We are delighted to hear that our team provided respectful person-centred care throughout your loved one's stay. Your kind words will be shared with the Birch Abbey team.
Nothing is ever too much for the staff and management at this home. Absolutely exceptional care provided, beautiful smiling staff and residents. Such a warm welcome on each visit. I am so glad I chose Birch Abbey, it is truly a home away from home!
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. Its great to hear positive feedback regarding the staff and management. I am please that your loved one is settled and you are enjoying your visiting experience. I have passed your positive comments onto Rachel and her staff team Thank you once again.
My dad was admitted to Birch Abbey in January and the care he has received so far has been fantastic. The staff are lovely and friendly, they genuinely care about my dad. Knowing he is so well looked after is a great relief.
Thank you for your lovely words and 5* review, its great to hear that you are pleased with the care your Dad has received at Argyle Park.
I have found the home comfortable, welcoming, happy staff, very caring, not just for the residnet for the partner visitors also. Hugh seems very happy and content he has been in Birch Abbey for one year. I am very grateful for the care he has had and more than happy to recommend Birch Abbey.
Thank you so much for your kind words and five star review. It's great to hear that your partner is happy and content at Birch Abbey.
The new programme of activities has really improved the day to day experience. As I get to know the staff I am constantly impressed by their care & attitude to residents, this is all staff - domestic/catering as well as the staff directly involved in care. My husband is happy and encouraged to help with various tasks which, in turn, makes him feel he has a role.
Thank you for your kind words, its really appreciated. Its great to hear that your husband is happy and engaged with the activities at Birch Abbey.
Thank you to all the care team at Birch Abbey. You are unfailingly cheerful, everyone knows the names of the residents and have a ward or two as they go about their duties. Mum can be a little quiet at times, doesn't always join in, but enjoys the activities from the side lines. There was a lovely singer in the other week, Mum was actually mouthing the words of the songs - lovely! Your care getting her up and dressed every day shows - she is always dressed in co-ordinating colours, as she likes - Thanks. xx
Thank you for your kind words. Its great to hear that your mum enjoys the atmosphere at Birch Abbey and that our care teams are always friendly and cheerful.
This care home has undergone a big transformation in the last 18 months and is still a work in progress. However, the enormous efforts made are very visible. They have had a productive recruitment drive and they have improved their acivities program. The staff are happy and there is a lovely atmosphere all round.The manager is approachable and happy to help. The carers are kind, compassionate and attentive. The chef and kitchen staff are always happy to help with dietary requirements. The laundry staff are great and clothing turnaround is quick. All the rooms are ensuite and they are kept clean and tidy by housekeeping. Its a good place to have a loved one cared for.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're really pleased to hear that the positive changes, team efforts and welcoming atmosphere have been recognised. Your kind words about Rachel, Birch Abbey Home Manager and other staff means a lot to us and we are grateful to have your support as we continue to build and improve.
I genuinely cannot speak highly enough of the staff at Birch Abbey. We recently lost my mum after years of care here. They have gone above and beyond ever day of her stay. They bought any equipment her care required, but more importantly these people genuinely care about the residents welfare. Despite living a few hours away, I never once worried about her care. They loved her and cared for her. For that, I will be eternally grateful and say my heartfelt thanks.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt review. We are truly sorry for the loss of your mum, and our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. It means so much to hear how supported and reassured you felt by the team, even from a distance.
The home is lovely, and the care is great. Dad is happy and settled, he is clean and well looked after. Although most staff are agency and therefore don't know my dad well, and his needs. The permanent staff and care managers know dad and it helps us as a family knowing this. More permanent staff, please.
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. I and the team appreciate that additional permanent staff are required and recruitment are working very hard to achieve this. In addition we try to book the same agency staff to maintain continuity of care. I will pass on your positive comments to the staff team.
First time visited home. Initial impression is excellent. Very clean & homely. Appears to be lots of activities available per boards. Lots of staff about and saw them interacting positively with other residents & visitors.
Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to write a review, its greatly appreciated.
This is only the first time I have visited. First impressions are really good. Staff are friendly, the rooms are good size and clean. The whole of building look well kept. I love the fact that it is very personalised and there are lots of activities in day care. The outside grounds are well kept. Overall excellent.
Thank you so much for your 5* review and lovely feedback.
On visiting our friend we found her to be sound asleep and we were unable to waken her. Being concerned we called for a nurse and were told they were on a break. We waited for another 20 minutes and being unable to waken our friend we became concerned and called for a nurse to come immediately. The senior assistant came took her blood pressure which was ok. We were very concerned that our friend was being prescribed 10mg of morphine daily which appeared to be making her drowsy a lot. She was not in pain. She appeared as if she had been overdosed. We have never seen her like this before. We requested an urgent review of her medication with a view to weaning her off morphine. When she entered the home a year ago she was perfectly compos mentos and independent and has since become very lethargic and miserable. We have seen a huge deterioration in her ability to function as a result of new medication and being deskilled.
In response to your comments, we thank you for taking the time to write this but would like to point out that all medication that is administered to any of our residents is done so under the strict guidance of the medical professionals involved in her care and as such her medication has been...
My husband has only been cared for at Birch Abbey for a few months, but in that time I have found the care he is receiving very good. He has high care needs that require constant monitoring and attention and they are being met. I visit each day and the staff are always pleasant and helpful. Meals are good and there is always a choice of menu available. My husband has settled in well and is content.
Thank you for sharing such kind words about Birch Abbey. We're so pleased to hear that your husband has settled in well and that you're happy with the care he's receiving. Our team is dedicated to providing attentive and compassionate care and it's wonderful to know their efforts are making a positive difference.
Birch Abbey is a good as it gets. Friendly management and staff, always ready to help. The home is always clean. Very nice gardens, could not fault the facilities and good layout of the building. I can not comment on value for money as I do not have the details.
Thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled to hear such positive feedback about Birch Abbey. Our team is dedicated to creating a friendly and supportive environment for all our residents and visitors and it's wonderful to know their efforts are appreciated.
I can't thank each and every one of you for all the care my husband received. I was with him right till the end. Highly recommended.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with Birch Abbey. It's truly humbling to hear how much our care meant to you and your husband during such a challenging time. We are pleased that you trusted us with his care and it's heartwarming to know that our team could provide the support and compassion you both needed.
The decoration in the home makes it feel homely and warm and lovely to walk into when we visit our relatives and loved ones. Big shout out to the domestic and laundry team as they are amazing not forgetting the kitchen staff as they are amazing as well.
It's a big help having someone one front of house as receptionist to help answer the door.
Best wishes
Thank You for your kind words, its heartwarming and very much appreciated.
Staff are wonderful but overworked. Management shows no interest. Leadership qualities lacking.
Thank you very much for your review and comments. We are very pleased to know that you found the care team 'wonderful' as this is so important to us that the care and support given to residents is the best it can be. We do apologise that you found 'management' lacking but if you raised an issue...
I am happy with the care my wife is receiving.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this review. I am pleased that you are happy with your wife's care, but never forget the door for the Manager is always open for suggestions and comments. I have passed your comments on to the homes team.
The room was spotlessly clean.
Thank you for your kind words, the team at Birch Abbey work tirelessly to ensure each and every resident feels loved, welcomed and cared for and that includes their visitors. We appreciate you taking the time to review the home.
My mother has been a resident for nearly two years and there has been massive improvements made with the latest manager. Times through the pandemic were tough for both the residents and staff who worked very hard, but understaffing was evident. However, these are now much better with an activities coordinator in place and better staffing levels. The love from the staff for the residents and relatives shines through. Well done all and let's hope it carries on!
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. I have passed your positive comments onto the home manager and her team. COVID was tough as you say for all of us, but we are now seeing as you rightly state light at the end of the tunnel.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 17 May 2024Requires improvement
- CaringRequires improvement
- EffectiveRequires improvement
- ResponsiveGood
- SafeRequires improvement
- Well-ledRequires improvement
Inspection ratings
We rate most services according to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led they are, using four levels:
- Outstanding - The service is performing exceptionally well.
- Good - The service is performing well and meeting our expectations.
- Requires Improvement - The service isn't performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve.
- Inadequate - The service is performing badly and we've taken action against the person or organisation that runs it.
- Not rated - we have not yet rated this area of the service, this is normally because the assessments we have carried out have been focused on other key questions.
Bed Vacancies
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
News (0) & Events (0)
There are no news items for Birch Abbey.
There are no upcoming events for Birch Abbey.
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Birch Abbey.
Meet the Team (1)

Rachel Smalley leads the team at Birch Abbey, ensuring our commitment to providing the very best dementia care Southport has to offer. For Rachel and the team, the health, well-being, and happiness of our residents is always the number one priority.
"What makes Birch Abbey special is our genuine understanding of dementia and how we can create an environment where people feel safe, valued, and truly at home. Every person has their own story, and it's our privilege to honour that whilst providing the expert care they need."
Rachel ensures that our purpose-built design and person-centred approach work together to create the best possible life for every resident.
Frequently Asked Questions about Birch Abbey
What types of Care is Birch Abbey registered for?
Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition, Physical Disability are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.
How many Rooms does Birch Abbey have?
There are 60 Single Rooms.
What are the Facilities & Services at Birch Abbey?
Own Furniture if required, Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Bar/Café, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room, Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.
How far is Birch Abbey to the centre of Southport?
0.6 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 Birch Abbey to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Birch Abbey has an Enhanced Service -more info.