The Willows Care Home

Heathercroft, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5EG
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9.7 136 Reviews
  • The Willows Care Home, Milton Keynes
The Willows Care Centre is located in Great Linford which is a village with the Grand Union Canal running through its centre just a few miles from central Milton Keynes.

Set in spacious, peaceful grounds the home has en-suite rooms and extensive communal areas and provides the highest standards of care and accommodation for people with residential, dementia, nursing or palliative care needs.

The Willows makes the most of the diverse local amenities. A short walk from the home there is a local centre which has shopping opportunities, eateries and a coffee shop. Two public houses offering food and refreshments are also within walking distance. The local duck pond is only a stone’s throw away form the home and provides a tranquil setting to watch the local wild life.

The Willows has lounge and dining areas with kitchenettes on each floor where meals are provided by a chef and their team who can cater for all specialist diets.

In addition, there are numerous quiet areas around the home, a conservatory and a hairdressing salon. There is also a large enclosed garden which is accessible to wheelchair users.

Reminiscence is key to wellbeing and The Willows has three reminiscence shops within the grounds to take the people living there on a trip down memory lane. The dynamic and engaging activities team provide wide and varied opportunities for social engagement tailored to the choices of the individual.

Due to the peaceful setting of the home it is difficult to imagine it is so close to the centre of a busy city. There is good public transport links to the home with a bus stop just outside the main gates.

A warm welcome awaits anyone at any time of day with no visiting restrictions, young and old alike the more the merrier.

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Care Provided

Type of Service

    Nursing Home
  • For a maximum of 130 Service Users

Primary Care Categories

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

Other Care Provided

  • Palliative / End of Life Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £1450

These prices are only a guideline, please contact The Willows Care Home to find out the exact price for your requirements.

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 £254.06 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.

Good to Know

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Sahr Mosery (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 60+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (130)

Visiting

  • Visitors welcome at any time.

Parking

  • On site parking for visitors.

The Willows Care Home Reviews (136)

Total of 136, showing 81-100
9.7

The Willows Care Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.721) out of 10, based on 47 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Willows Care Home has 136 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 106
  • 25
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Date Published

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Review from Donna R (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 June 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My mother is a resident in the dementia unit at The Willows. I live in the United States and keep in touch with her via Skype. The staff in reception are unfailingly helpful, both in booking my calls and in trying to make sure they get connected on days when things aren't going smoothly. The staff in
the dementia unit are obviously busy and have a difficult job, but they're friendly and helpful, and my mother is always nicely dressed, or, if she's in bed, looks clean and tidy. Mum's not always an easy person to cope with, but I've never heard a staff member speak to her disrespectfully. I can only comment on some of the review categories from what I've heard from Mum, or have been able to see during my Skype calls.

Reply from Larysa Koss, Acting Manager at The Willows Care Home

Thank you so much for your comments. The team members and people who live in the home always like to hear what has been written about the home. Thank you for taking the time to review us. Kindest Regards.

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Review from Carol C (Daughter of Resident) published on 15 March 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Willows care home are amazing and the staff all work incredibly hard. They are kind, caring and I can always speak to a member of staff if I have any concerns about my mum. It's lovely to be able to see Mum again after the care home being closed, due to Covid. I would also like to mention the wonderful
work the reception team do - also they are extremely professional helpful warm and friendly. Carry on the great work you all do. The Willows is a first-class care home.

Reply from Aimee Bowler, Client Relationship Manager at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to feedback and for such a kind review. We will ensure we provide this feedback to our team members as they always appreciate hearing how their hard work and effort is received. Thank you and best wishes.

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Review from Michelle F (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 February 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has been a resident at The Willows Care Home for over 6 months now. The staff go out of their way to be welcoming, as soon as you step into the reception. Whenever we have any questions relating to Dad or visiting during covid, we receive a quick response. The kind and caring nature of the
staff is really evident to see.

Reply from Aimee Bowler, Client Relationship Manager at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and feedback and for your kinds words. We really appreciate it. I will be sure to pass on your lovely comments to our team members, Kind regards.

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Review from J D (Son of Resident) published on 30 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has always been cared for in this home and has never had a problem.

Reply from Aimee Bowler, Client Relationship Manager at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your lovely review, we really appreciate your feedback.

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Review from Victoria M (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 8 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Willows has always been so welcoming and happy. I feel my grandmother is very well looked after, as do the rest of my family. The staff are always helpful and willing to answer any questions we have.

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Review from Richard J (Son of Resident) published on 6 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum is cared for exemplarily. Staff are kind and compassionate. She is very happy. An excellent home.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your lovely review for The Willows and it's heartwarming to know that she is happy in the home. Kind regards.

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Review from S M (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I think there are some excellent staff and carers here.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of the Willows. It is always good to get feedback for the home and I will certainly take on board your scores. We will be in contact. Kind regards

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Review from P M (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

All staff are friendly and welcoming. Can't fault mum's care. Thank you for looking after my mum. Reception ladies are always friendly and helpful as well as the manager on mum's unit.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to do a review of The Willows. The Reception Ladies will be very pleased to read this also. Kind regards.

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Review from Zeb K (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very good covid protection rules. Friendly staff.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of The Willows, it was kind of you to take the time to do this. Kind regards.

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Review from O L (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad has been extremely happy at The Willows Care Home from the start. The staff treat him like family and in practice, that is what they are to him. So grateful!

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your kind review of The Willows; it is good to hear from someone that has been there for such a length of time, that's brilliant. How lovely that he is treated like family.
Kind regards.

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Review from Philip F (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Staff are nice and rooms are nice and clean. Food looks nice as well.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of The Willows. It was good to hear you are happy with the home. Kind regards.

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Review from David S (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I can talk openly with staff to help my mom. All my requests have been met up to date. Thank you.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you very much for taking the time to do a review at The Willows. It's good to hear you feel comfortable with the home. Kind regards.

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Review from Malcolm G (Son of Resident) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Food is generally below standard.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to review The Willows; it's always good to get feedback. Our Relationship Manager will call you this week to discuss the results. Kind regards.

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Review from Diwight E (Son of Resident) published on 30 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Staff are friendly and informative.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of the Willows and we are glad you are generally happy with the home. If you want to pop your head in to speak to the Manager or myself at any time, we would be happy to help. Kind regards Celia

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Review from B N (Son of Resident) published on 30 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Overall, The Willows is an excellent care home. The nursing staff are caring, responsive and provide good health support. Caring staff have been good, though due to covid, staff turnover seems to be high. Also, use of agency staff. If the caring staff retention improves this will provide better bonding
and consistency of care. Thus recommend improvement in staff retention and greater ratio to residents.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of the Willows and it's good to hear your comments. We absolutely agree about the staff, unfortunately, the mandatory double vaccinations had an impact on all care homes across the country and saw the loss of some incredible staff. It is hard times across the care sector to recruit staff. Excelcare are offering quite a bit above the industry norm and good benefits, so it will not be long before we have a full team there again. Thanks again for taking the time to do this review. Kind regards.

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Review from Raymond D (Son of Resident) published on 25 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Happy and friendly. Care is also good. Sometimes finding information out can be difficult but has improved since lockdown. I find the building to be very hot! Overall care from nurses has been great. Reception staff have been great from day one!

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your review of The Willows. We will have a look at the temperature in the home. If you need anything please feel free to contact me.

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Review from E O (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have found my mum's care second to none. Even though Mum has only been at "The Willows" for a couple of weeks, she has been treated with dignity and care, and so have we as a family. The atmosphere is both caring and respectful, with help available at any given moment.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you very much for your review of The Willows, it's very kind of you to take the time to do this. We appreciate your feedback and it's good to hear that your Mum has been treated with dignity and care.

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Review from Nicole H (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 22 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very happy since Nan has been a resident.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your response with regards to The Willows. It is good to hear your Nan is happy in the home. Kind regards.

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Review from P H (Husband of Resident) published on 22 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Everything seems OK, thank you.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to do a review for the Willows, we are pleased to hear everything is good for you. Kind regards.

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Review from Janice D (Daughter of Resident) published on 17 November 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has only been at The Willows for a few weeks, but I find it very welcoming, and everyone is very helpful. The room is very clean and comfortable.

Reply from Celia Hardill, Regional Director (Milton Keynes) at The Willows Care Home

Thank you for your kind review of The Willows Care Home. We are happy to hear that the home is welcoming and helpful too.

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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.721)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.721) out of 10 for The Willows Care Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 47 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 45 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Care Home is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.721 for The Willows Care Home is calculated as follows: ( (453 Excellents x 5) + (70 Goods x 4) + (10 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) + (15 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 549 Ratings = 4.721

  • b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for The Willows Care Home is based on 45 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 130 registered maximum number of service users is 26, which has been reached with 45 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 30 Dec 2024

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Requires improvement

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Good

Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.

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Bed Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (8)

Meet the Team (4)

Sahr

Sahr Moseray

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2022

Sahr join The Willows Care Home in October 2022 as a Home Manager. He has worked in the care sector for over 18 years and held various roles from carer to Home Manager; he brings with him a wealth of knowledge of caring for older people.


Sahr is passionate about delivering a high standard of person-centred care and transformational leadership. Sahr has completed Level 7 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management, Level 4 NVQ in Leadership and Management for Care Services and Level 3 NVQ in Health and Social Care.


Sahr’s primary responsibilities include managing day to day smooth running of the home. Supervising and motivating team members to deliver high-quality services and ensuring the needs and aspirations of people who use the services are being met.

Justyna

Justyna Blajerska

Job Title: Operations Support Manager

Joined: 2022

Justyna joined Excelcare in October 2022 in the role of Residential Manager.


She is responsible for leading and managing the residential unit and Lavender lodge on all aspects of day-to-day business deliverables, including performance monitoring in relation to quality and best outcome for people who live in the home.


She has recently become our Operations Support Manager.

Gale

Gale Hills

Job Title: Business Manager

Joined: 2010

Gale has been with Excelcare for 14 years, appointed as Regional Administration Manager.


Gale was promoted to Business Manager in 2022. She is responsible for developing and engaging with team members to include Admin, Care, Domestic, Laundry and Catering services to the Home.

Suzanne

Suzanne Bennett

Job Title: Home Administrator

Joined: 2023

Suzanne joined Excelcare in 2023.
She works closely with the management team, receptionist to ensure the smooth running of administration within the home and help to ensure high standards are maintained throughout the home.

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