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Barchester Austen House Care Home

Kilnsea Drive, Lower Earley, Reading, Berkshire RG6 3UJ
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Being impressed starts with the moment you arrive in the gardensClive B(Son-in-law of Resident/Service User)
Barchester Austen House Care Home, Reading
Lovely people each and every single one of themAnnie Joan W(Resident / Service User)
Barchester Austen House Care Home, Reading
We feel all staff are working together as a team. Staff communicate well with family.K H(Daughter of Resident/Service User)
Barchester Austen House Care Home, Reading

Austen House is a purpose-built Nursing Home in Reading, set in a semi-rural location and within easy reach of Wokingham and London. The staff at Austen House are dedicated to meeting all residents’ needs.

Austen House boasts an established, well run Nursing Floor with dedicated, experienced nurses 24 hours a day.

Austen House’s specialised Memory Lane Community (for people living with dementia) was refurbished in Summer 24. The team have also been...  

Care Provided by Barchester Austen House Care Home

Primary Care Categories

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

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 79 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • Convalescent Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Bar/Café
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential CareFrom £1,897N/A

This Weekly Fee rate is an indication only of a typical standard fee rate for a resident living in a standard, comfortable room. A final Weekly Fee rate will be confirmed once we have carried out a pre-admission needs assessment. For nursing care, Weekly Fee rate will be dependent on personal needs.

Contact Barchester Austen House Care Home 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)

Good to Know

Group / Owner

Person in charge

  • Katherine Mahoney (Registered Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 45+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Year Purpose Built: 1994
  • Last Refurbishment: 2024
  • Number of floors: 2

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (79)

Parking

  • Free parking on site at Austen House

Barchester Austen House Care Home Reviews (131)

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9.7

Barchester Austen House Care Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.666) out of 10, based on 28 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Barchester Austen House Care Home has 131 reviews.

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Showing 131 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Rob J (Brother-in-law of Resident) published on 6 January 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
On the occasional times that I was able to visit my brother-in-law during the few months of his stay at Austen House, I was immediately impressed by the courtesy, respect and kindness of all of the staff to both visitors, relatives and the residents. I know my sister shares this view and on the basis of this experience, we would have no hesitation in recommending Austen House for Dementia care.

Thank you to all of the staff for your great work!

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Review from R L (Brother of Resident) published on 11 December 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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When entering Austen House we immediately feel at home and have been included in all my brother's activities. He has been happy to make his home here and he loves all the staff. We find them all very caring especially this week. If a problem has occurred it has been dealt with quickly and efficiently.

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Review from N H (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 November 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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The staff are to be commended for their cheerful, positive, friendly attitude which is so essential for a care-giving role that they have to daily fulfil - a great approach to an essential service for the vulnerable.

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Review from J G (Respite Resident) published on 30 October 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Restaurant - Old people need help cutting up food. Staff very very slow answering the call bell. Unable to understand some staff. Food cooked nicely but could be a better selection. Promises by staff to return and see to your needs took 3 times before they came. Very clean. Entertainment was good. Staff need extra regarding care work. Managers too much paperwork. Otherwise nice people and place.

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Review from M G (Wife of Resident) published on 29 October 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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My husband's first experience of respite care, and I can't speak highly enough of the care in the home. Everyone is so friendly, good fun and above all 'caring'. My daughter and I had to go on holiday without him, very daunting, but we would have no fear of him coming here again, my praise to the manager, she treats all as friends. My only hope that, if required again, that my husband can come to Austen House with it's 'lovely crew'.

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Review from R S (Son of Resident) published on 24 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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Good staff, plenty of activities for residents. However, food choices, week to week, seem limited as if it's run on a very tight budget.

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Review from B R (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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My father was very happy at Austen House. Nurse's, care staff and activities team were excellent and very caring.

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Review from A M (Son of Resident) published on 23 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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Dad cam to Austen House in July and 2 monthson I have seen a great improvement in him. His general manner and ability seem much better. He appears calm and content with being in this home.

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Review from C D (Wife of Resident) published on 23 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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I am extremely pleased with the care given to my husband.

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Review from M B (Son of Resident) published on 19 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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Dad moved into Austen House in April 2019, took a while to settle in, but the staff are very patient and caring. He has now totally settled into his new environment.

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Review from J H (Wife of Resident) published on 5 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The care home has been good in that they have been able to get him to have a shower, which I was unable to do. The staff are very good and caring. The food is also very good and plentiful, along with tea and coffee. The facilities are also very well presented.

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Review from H C (Wife of Resident) published on 5 September 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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My husband became a resident at Austen House in April when circumstances required a change. Fortunately, my family and I have been extremely pleased with the individual care and attention my husband has, and continues to receive. All members of staff, without exception show respect for the individual and concern and care for his well being. Their care and attitude to my husband has made a difficult situation easier to bear.

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Review from A S (Niece of Resident) published on 9 August 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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During my Aunt's stay, I found all the staff extremely helpful, although the nursing staff changed quite frequently their duty of care was always of good standard. No doubt my Aunt could be a little difficult, she was treated with respect and dignity. I was contacted even if a minor incident occurred. When I visited Austen House everyone was friendly and I was able to speak with a nurse if I had any concerns.

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Review from K F (Husband of Resident) published on 31 July 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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Austen House received my wife from the hospital for end of life care. After initial problems with the type of bed that was suitable for my wife's condition, which was quickly rectified, the care shown by the nurses and staff was very kind and, at times, went beyond what was expected. The room was kept clean and the laundry service was particularly good. I would have no hesitation in recommending this care home.

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Review from Shirley G (Sister of Resident) published on 23 May 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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I am very happy with care, staff all friendly, made welcome. Tea and cakes and asked to join in what everyone is doing.

The rooms are tidy and again the staff are very helpful. It has got a lot better with the new management team.

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Review from P W (Wife of Resident) published on 4 April 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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We are very pleased with the care and nursing our relative is receiving and put his improvement down, very much, to the attention he receives.

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Review from Dominique S (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 March 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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Very good care of my father.

Always clean and well moisturised as of 4 months ago.

Big progression within the care home within the past 4 months.

Dad is always hydrated and has gained weight and is looking healthy.

The room is kept clean and frequently updated with calls on Dad's wellbeing.

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Review from Danielle S (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 February 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
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I have seen a real change in the last year. My dad is very happy, has gained weight and looks very healthy.

The care home is kept in good condition and is very clean! All staff are friendly and welcoming. I feel very comfortable leaving my dad.

Staff deserve a lot of praise!

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Review from Fred F (Son of Resident) published on 2 August 2018 Submitted via Postal Card
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My father has been a resident at Austen House form September 2017. Before entering the home, he was consistently reluctant to join lunch club or visit a day centre. He now looks forward and participating in the varied activities and garden centre visits and he's rediscovered his singing voice.

The general care and attention he receives from all staff is friendly and professional. The food is always of a high standard with a choice of menu.

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Review from Clive B (Son-in-law of Resident) published on 16 July 2018 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Just wanted to say how absolutely delighted and impressed we are with everything about Austen House. Being impressed starts with the moment you arrive in the gardens; and the feelgood factor continues when you enter the reception and goes on when you see the rooms and lounge, dining room etc. The whole ambience is totally pleasing. I have always thought if I end up having to be in a home it would be a total nightmare, but Austen House has changed my mind!

But, of course, no matter how wonderful facilities are, in the end, it all comes down to people, and once again it is a big (huge) 10 out of 10. We were very impressed when we were first shown around and with our initial telephone enquiries and since my wife's mother has moved in, we simply can not speak highly enough of everything that has been done for her: the care, the food, and particularly the staff have all been excellent.

In summary, we are absolutely convinced we could not have chosen better. Thank you.

Reply from Rozina Ali, General Manager at Barchester Austen House Care Home

Thank you very much for your lovely feedback on care delivery at Austen House, I will definitely share your views with my team which will further enhance their motivation to provide kind care to our residents.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 04 October 2022
Overall
Requires improvement
  • CaringGood
  • EffectiveRequires improvement
  • ResponsiveGood
  • SafeRequires improvement
  • Well-ledRequires improvement
Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

News (34) & Events (3)

News
  • 20 Jul 2026

    You brought smiles and so much happiness to all our residents as they got to see and hold your beautiful birds. It was a delight meeting the Tawny owls, Barn...

  • 20 Apr 2026

    Today we enjoyed making our own pizzas with a variety of yummy toppings, pepperoni, salami mushrooms and much more. We all worked together to make some extras so we could...

  • 17 Apr 2026

    We had a wonderful afternoon taking our lovely residents to the pub for a change of scenery and great chit-chat. Everyone enjoyed some delicious cake and their favourite choice of...

Upcoming Events

Awards / Recognitions (96)

Accreditations

There are no accreditations posted yet for Barchester Austen House Care Home.

Meet the Team (19)

Katherine Mahoney
Katherine MahoneyJob Title:General ManagerJoined: 2025

Hello, I am Katherine Mahoney. I am the General Manager at Austen House. Welcome to our Carehome profile!

I have worked in Health and social care for 25 years, and was a registered manager in various care settings for 15 years. Most recently, I have been registered manager of a premium care home for the last 4 years.

I am very passionate about delivering outstanding care to our residents, empowering them to make choices and live their lives to the fullest. I believe resident wellbeing is paramount and should be at the centre of everything we do, and I enjoy making a meaningful impact on their lives.

I am very excited to be part of the team at Austen House, and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact, ensuring every resident’s journey with us is filled with dignity, respect and high quality care.

Khizra Ain
Khizra AinJob Title:Clinical Deputy ManagerJoined: 2024

Hello, my name is Khizra, and I am proud to be the Clinical Deputy Manager here at Austen House Care Home. I joined the team in 2024 as a Registered Nurse and, through dedication and commitment to providing the very best care, progressed to Senior Registered Nurse before stepping into my current role.

I began my career as a Military Nurse in Pakistan, where I served for two years before moving to the United Kingdom to continue my nursing journey. My passion has always been to ensure the highest standards of care, and I strongly believe in a person-centred approach that values the dignity, individuality, and well-being of every resident.

For me, making a positive difference in people’s lives is at the heart of everything I do, and I am dedicated to supporting both residents and colleagues here at Austen House.

Lind Immaculate
Lind ImmaculateJob Title:Home AdministratorJoined: 2015

I'm Lind, and I have been a part of the team since 2015. I am very passionate about my role at Austen House and love spending time with the residents and getting to know their relatives. During my time at Austen House, I have developed my skills and completed the Level 2 Accounting course.

I am always around to help and happy to assist wherever possible.

Ainsworth Brown
Ainsworth BrownJob Title:ChefJoined: 2015

Ainsworth started working in the hospitality industry in 2004 as a second chef at a different care home. He gained further experience as a Chef De Partie, preparing various English, Asian and French authentic dishes, before being promoted to Head Chef.

Gihan Jayasinghe
Gihan JayasingheJob Title:Head of HousekeepingJoined: 2023

Hello, I’m Gihan and I am the Head of Housekeeping.

I have been working for Barchester since 2023 and am proud to lead my team of housekeepers and laundry assistants in ensuring the home is clean and looking beautiful.

I really enjoy working at Austen House alongside our residents and my team.”

Soniya Sharma
Soniya SharmaJob Title:Head of UnitJoined: 2019

Hello, my name is Sonyia and I am a young, dedicated, committed nurse, willing to explore and develop my knowledge and skills.

I enjoy working with a variety of people and enjoy a challenge, using my initiative to solve a problem. It is important to me to ensure that within the care home, my residents are comfortable and satisfied with their surroundings and care.

Josephine Shingwele
Josephine ShingweleJob Title:Head of Unit/Care PractionerJoined: 2005

Joesphine has been employed by Barchester Austen House since/02/2023 and ever since she has been a very valued member of staff, she is reliable and flexible and her committed to her role as she helps other staff members to deliver possible person-centred care to our residents.

Prathistha Karhi
Prathistha KarhiJob Title:Registered NurseJoined: 2021

Hello, my name is Prathistha and I have joined the nursing team at Austen House, I moved from the Nepal to qualify as a nurse and really enjoying getting to know and caring for our residents

Karen Lay
Karen LayJob Title:Laundry AssistantJoined: 1998

Karen has worked with us for over 20 years! She is a Laundry Assistant within Austen House.

Domestic Team
Domestic Team Job Title:Hostess TeamJoined: 2016

Hello! Meet some of our hostesses who are very passionate about the art of hosting and creating unforgettable experiences at Austen House.

Sunita Biyani
Sunita BiyaniJob Title:Activities AssistantJoined: 2008

I joined the team at Austen House in 2008 and passionate about fulfilling residents lives by getting to know each individual on a personal level and supporting them to continue enjoying their hobbies, I hold this very close to my heart

Jo Austin
Jo AustinJob Title:Hairdresser

Jo is our home hairdresser at Austen House, appointments with her are available two days a week and she is very flexible over what time residents would like, we all love a pamper and she also visits residents in their rooms if they prefer!

Charlotte Stevens
Charlotte StevensJob Title:Activities LeadJoined: 2026
Hiya, I’m Charlie Stevens, the new activities lead. I’m always there for our residents, offering support, a listening ear, and personalised encouragement whenever needed. I have a creative spirit and thrive on designing engaging activities and games that connect our residents, making meaningful bonds and community in fun, inclusive ways. I personalise activities for everyone—including one-to-one sessions—whether organising reminiscence sessions or spontaneous creative workshops and trips tailored to everyone’s interests, constantly planning exciting things to inspire joy and well-being.

Sent from my iPhone

Abdullah Mohsin
Abdullah MohsinJob Title:Administrative AssistantJoined: 2025

Hi, I am Abdullah Mohsin. I joined Barchester Healthcare in October 2025 and work as an Administrative Assistant at Austen House, where I support the day-to-day administration of the home and help ensure everything runs smoothly for residents, families, and staff.

I enjoy being part of a supportive team and contributing to a welcoming and well-organised environment for everyone at the home.

Loredana Bocioaca
Loredana BocioacaJob Title:Senior Registered NurseJoined: 2024

My name is Loredana, a registered nurse, originating from Romania, and I joined Barchester in September 2024.

I have been very happy working at Austen House as a senior nurse since March 2025.

My responsibilities include leading nursing teams, ensuring high-quality, evidence-based patient care, and mentoring junior staff.

I am recommending Austen House as a beautiful home, with lovely residents and trained and kind staff looking after them.

Nisha Gurung
Nisha GurungJob Title:Senior Registered NurseJoined: 2024

My name is Nisha, and I am a passionate and hardworking nurse who is committed to continuously developing my knowledge and clinical skills. I take pride in providing high-quality care and always strive to improve my professional practice.

Providing compassionate care is very important to me. I always aim to ensure that residents feel safe, respected, and comfortable, and that they are happy with both their care and their living environment within the care home.

Janet Frimpong
Janet FrimpongJob Title:Healthcare AssistantJoined: 2023

My name is Janet, and I joined Austen House in 2023 as a Healthcare Assistant. I am passionate about providing compassionate and supportive care to residents. With a caring nature and strong teamwork skills, I enjoy contributing to high-quality care and supporting the well-being of the people I look after.

Clara Da Silva
Clara Da SilvaJob Title:Housekeeping AssistantJoined: 2021

My name is Clara, and I joined Austen House in 2021 as a Housekeeping Assistant. I take pride in helping to keep the home clean, comfortable, and welcoming for residents, visitors, and staff.

I understand how important a clean and well-organised environment is for the health, comfort, and well-being of residents. I am happy to support residents and colleagues whenever needed, and I enjoy contributing to a positive and caring atmosphere at Austen House.

Assan Ibrahim
Assan IbrahimJob Title:Healthcare AssistantJoined: 2025

I'm Assan Ibrahim. I'm from West Africa, Sierra Leone, a small but beautiful country. I'm a budding Lawyer by profession, having just finished my Law degree at the University of Makeni before moving to the UK. Over the years, I have worked, and I have earned my experience by communicating, caring and interacting with individuals with whom I found pleasure. Working with Barchester is my first job in the UK, and the staff at Austen House are top-notch. From the Manager right down to the least, they're all amazing to work with. Working here has given me more exposure, and there is more to life in all areas... I love Barchester, and I'm pleased to be working in Austen House Care Home.

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