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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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Review from H Z-X (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 September 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Some carers are good. New management is looking good and trying to improve the quality of care.

Reply from Jo Wood, Client Liaison Manager at Barchester Austen House Care Home

Thank you for your comments. We welcome feedback to ensure we continue our focus on delivering person centred care. We are pleased to hear you are happy with our improvements.

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Review from Frances J (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 September 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The staff in the Kennet area at Austen House Care Home are an exceptional group of nurses and carers. My mother spent the last eight months of her life here and she was very happy. During this time her care was second to none and the staff showed great friendship towards her. Knowing that she was happy, safe and secure gave me peace of mind. When I visited her I too was shown a friendly welcome and I was kept informed of any changes. We were able to personalise her room with her pictures, ornaments and soft toys which made her feel at home. I would not hesitate to recommend Austen House Care Home to anyone looking for a nursing care home.

Reply from Serb Sidhu, DSMM at Barchester Austen House Care Home
Dear Mrs Jones
Thank you very much for your positive and valuable feedback which we are delighted to share with our team. We are pleased to know that we were able to make such a difference to your mothers life. We thank you for scoring us so highly on all areas and we are committed to sustaining these excellent standards.
Kind Regards

The Management Team at Austen House

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Review from David G (Husband of Resident) published on 18 September 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
Austen House nursing staff, care staff and the manager all give care and demonstrate respect, understanding, constant skill and patience. This creates a really caring community and willingness to respond in creative ways to numerous and constant demand.
The atmosphere is positive, teamwork is good, there is great spirit and enthusiasm evident in the staff teams.

Areas that need to be developed are the use of the gardens, singers, musicians, entertainers, music and artwork, I think. Getting more people out of their rooms. We are very pleased with Austen House.

Reply from Jo Wood, Client Liaison Manager at Barchester Austen House Care Home

Thank you for your kind comments and we will look at the areas that you have suggested. We will feed this back to the teams at the home.

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Review from B O (Wife of Resident) published on 6 September 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My husband has been at Austen House since January 2017. He has settled well and I am very pleased. I must compliment the staff for their understanding, warmth and wonderful care they have shown to my husband and in fact myself also. They exercise terrific patience and comfort.

I always find him in clean clothes and neatly shaven. Compliments must also be paid to the catering staff, who provide a varied menu. I must mention that I am very impressed with our new manageress and look forward to watching her new inspirations manifest.

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

We are very thankful to 'B O' for her wonderful feedback and reassure her that we will continue working hard to offer kindest care to our residents and all family members at Austen House.

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Review from Malcolm C (Husband of Resident) published on 21 July 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Too often, agency carers, some of whom don't quite understand what is required of them.

Rarely does a carer look in to see if the resident is alright. Meals can often be left on the bedside table out of the patient's reach - not all carers do this! Usually, a new carer just started.

Residents may have a long wait to be cleaned and made comfortable.

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Review from Eileen F (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 July 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

We had to quickly find a care/nursing home for mum after a traumatic and life changing fall left her needing 24-hour care. My father is elderly too and needed somewhere close to their and my home. This fitted the bill. Mum is happy here, well fed and looked after by a team of carers who've taken the time to get to know her and us. Dad, myself and other family members can visit mum whenever we wish knowing she is in a home she likes, safe, secure, well fed, clean and warm. What could any daughter ask of her much loved mum's care. Thank you.

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

Dear Elieen

Thank you very much indeed for your glowing feedback concerning the care that we are providing for your mother. Our team are committed to ensuring that our residents receive quality care and we are pleased that you, your family and your mother are happy with what we have been able to...  

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Review from P G (Wife of Resident) published on 16 May 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The home is well run. It can be short of staff especially at weekends but this is a country problem as there are not many people who will do the job. Overall, all staff do a very good job in which is a very stressful occupation. The entertainment team work hard and fill as much time as they can.

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Review from Malcom C (Husband of Resident) published on 4 January 2017 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Carers good. Could be better! Response to residents call varies depending on carer on duty. Has improved since new manager appointed.

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Review from Pam H (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 December 2016 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My Father has been a resident at Austen House (Bourne Unit) since August 2015. He has Vascular Dementia... The care he receives is very good. Communication from Austen House to my family and I has much improved over the last 4/5 months in that we receive proactive updates on his well-being, health etc. - through telephone calls and newly-commenced "Relatives Meetings". This was not the case when he first went there. There has been a large turnover of senior management staff and Dementia Nursing Staff (which is being addressed). Most, fortunately, the same wonderful Carers have been looking after my Father since his arrival there, so they know him and they know me and my Family.

Barchester Homes are finally investing in Austen House with planned (long overdue) redecoration in all Units. Alas, my Father's Unit will be the last one to be completely updated, although some walls in corridors have been painted thus making it brighter (& helpful & calming to the residents).

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Review from Ian A (Son of Resident) published on 30 November 2016 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
My father moved into Austen House in June of this year. From day one I have been impressed with the care and attention he receives. He is a very frail 96 year old with vascular dementia.

The staff in his section are helpful, caring and efficient. He has a choice of meals and tea and cakes are provided throughout the day. They ensure he is fed, clean and shaved on a daily basis. For the past eight years, I had to look after him and after hospitalisation, the council suggested he went into a nursing home. This was the right decision and now I also have my life back.

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Review from Anita R (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 January 2016 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My father was a resident in Loddon Unit for 20 months until his death on Christmas Eve 2015. His behaviour could be a little challenging at times, but he was cared for by the nurses and carers with kindness, patience and even a little gentle teasing and fun. He clearly grew to love them for this and was known for the beaming smile he wore when interacting with staff. The atmosphere on the unit was almost like a family home and visitors (sadly he didn't have many) were made welcome. Dad was always dressed in clean clothes, he had a good choice of food and was fed by staff at mealtimes, and when he wanted to go to his room staff would select something for him to watch on his TV, as he was unable to do this for himself. I could think of him at any time at Austen House, warmly confident that he was being properly looked after. This had not been the case at the previous home (not a Barchester one) he had been in, so I visited often in order to check on his care. Dad's residence at Austen House became an immense relief to me and the rest of Dad's family. We are so grateful.

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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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