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Merlewood

Hollow Lane, Virginia Water, Surrey GU25 4LR
Elizabeth Finn Homes Ltd Logo
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Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood, Virginia Water

Merlewood Nursing & Residential Home is a converted Victorian house with bedrooms purpose-built all on the ground floor for nursing and elderly care needs, located within 23-acre grounds and surrounded by the picturesque Surrey landscape.

The service keeps close links with related health services, including hospices, GPs in order to ensure personal care packages remain updated and effective to each individual.

Many trips, outings and events are organised as part of the...  

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Care Provided by Merlewood

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 54 Service Users

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Convalescent Care
  • Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

Facilities

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

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential CareFrom £1,950From £2,050
Nursing CareFrom £2,375From £2,475

Contact Merlewood 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

Person in charge

  • Debbie Vellender (General Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Last Refurbishment: 2022
  • Number of floors: 1

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (54)

Visiting

  • The home have an open visiting policy.

Parking

  • Ample parking on site and disabled parking by the entrance.

Merlewood Reviews (103)

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9.8

Merlewood has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.782) out of 10, based on 31 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Merlewood has 103 reviews.

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Showing 103 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Jeanie B (Aunt of Resident) published on 7 November 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The time my nephew was in Merlewood was the best we could have wished for in the circumstances. The care he was given was wonderful and after being in hospital for a week, he so appreciated the lovely food provided that was presented beautifully as well. All the staff were so good and I cannot praise these people enough.

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Review from J G (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 October 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The staff at Merlewood are professional, caring and look after the patients with care and dignity. They kept me informed of doctors visits, medicines and her care from day to day. An advance care plan was put in place so that her wishes and mine were recorded. A very friendly atmosphere at all times and activities were good.

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Review from Tracy B (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 May 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Too many words could spoil my review. So here are just a few. Extremely grateful for the care and attention my mum was shown during the last weeks of her life. The respect and the tenderness which she was shown each and every minute, day or night is lacking in today's society.
I thank the nursing staff who every day pass the telephone to my mum so we could continue our ritual of the daily chat. And the compassion I was shown during and after my mum passed.

Thank you all, I will never forget.

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Review from Judith H (Wife of Resident) published on 22 January 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The care provided at Merlewood is excellent. The whole place looks, and smells, clean and pleasant. The residents each have an en-suite room and are treated with respect and kindness. There is a full range of social activities, organised by a very competent team, in which all are encouraged to participate. Food is served in one of two dining rooms or in residents’ bedrooms and is good. I owe Merlewood a huge debt because when my husband came here he was given 4 weeks to live, but with the excellent care he has received at Merlewood, he is doing well over two years later!

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Review from J B (Son of Resident) published on 21 January 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother has been a resident for 3 years and I can honestly say the staff have looked after her wonderfully. They have displayed professionalism to the highest degree. As a family member, it has been immensely reassuring that her needs have been met in such a lovely way. Thank you.

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Review from Ron B (Son of Resident) published on 2 January 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
My father went into Merlewood for two weeks respite care while he was there his condition deteriorated and we converted his stay to permanent. While he was there the care provided was professional, compassionate and at the very highest level.

Merlewood is a bright, cheery place, well appointed and staffed by brilliant people. We are very grateful for the care provided to my father. Thanks and best wishes for the future.

Reply from Richard Hawes, Chief Executive Office at Merlewood

Thank you for your positive comments on our home, we try to ensure that all our residents and families have a positive experience, and will ensure your thanks are passed on to our colleagues in the home.

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Review from Andrew (Son of Resident) published on 2 January 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The staff and organisation of Merlewood provided an excellent environment of care for my mother in her last years. This was not only a comfort to her but to our family as well - thank you.

Reply from Richard Hawes, Chief Executive Office at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, it is our aim to provide exceptional care at all times, and we will make sure your comments are passed on to colleagues at the home.

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Review from Mike B (Son of Resident) published on 17 December 2018 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My father recently spent two and a half weeks in Merlewood Nursing Home which turned out to be the last two weeks of his life! While he was in there he was cared for in the best possible way. He was made very comfortable in every aspect. All the staff worked in a most professional and friendly manner to both residents and visitors. I cannot thank everyone enough for all the help and support they have they given all the family.

If needed I would not hesitate in recommending Merlewood to anyone!

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Review from S B (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 October 2018 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Wonderful environment and caring staff. Clean, food is very good, staff and residents look happy. Nice range of activities feels safe and secure. Entering/exiting through the front door is a little difficult when manoeuvring a wheelchair as the pathway from the door to the outside is not even, have to lift the wheels of the wheelchair to exit. My mother seems happy and I am happy. The staff are compassionate, responsive and wonderful with the residents.

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Review from Chris G (Son of Resident) published on 22 October 2018 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I cannot recommend Merlewood highly enough.

My father came for end of life care for the last two and a half weeks of his life and the staff could not have been nicer, more caring or professional. Their commitment to their patients was obvious and as a result, they made a very difficult time so much easier. The setting and facilities are first rate but this would count for little without caring staff, which is in itself a tribute to excellent management.

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Review from W G (Respite Resident) published on 14 May 2018 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

I was in Merlewood for a short stay and I cannot speak highly enough of the staff who without exception were kind, considerate and cheerful and made my stay most enjoyable.

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Review from L R (Niece of Resident) published on 26 March 2018 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

My relative was moved from Cardiff to Merlewood to be close to where we live. When she arrived by ambulance, it was felt that she would be there for a couple of weeks, as she was so weak. Twenty months later, she passed away. She was SO WELL cared for by the amazing staff and she was so happy living there. All of the staff are truly wonderful and we would have no hesitation in recommending Merlewood to anyone. Thank you all for the love and care given.

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Review from Helen K (Daughter of Resident) published on 17 January 2018 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

Although my mother's stay at Merlewood was relatively short, we were extremely pleased with the level of care provided. Every member of staff encountered was so friendly and helpful and mum was looked after with such genuine care and kindness. Mum entered the home at the final stage of her life and it's a shame she was unable to appreciate the activities and nurturing environment.

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Review from Mervyn G (Son of Resident) published on 13 December 2017 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We reluctantly placed my mother into Merlewood in November 2016 and without doubt, I had a guilt complex believing I was letting her down. Within 48 hours of her arriving at Merlewood I realised it was a great decision, she had constant company which she did not at home, the quality of food is excellent and far better than we could arrange through carers and family effort. Staff encouraged her to join activities and very quickly she became part of the status quo at 91 years old and having suffered a stroke five years earlier. Staff are unbelievably caring and patient with the residents, I could never do their job and can only admire their commitment and the love they show for the older folks.

If anyone is having a problem and wrestling their conscience over placing a loved one in Merlewood, go and take a look, I believe you will like what you see. It turned out a great decision for my mother.

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Review from R S (Son of Resident) published on 10 November 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience
The care and the facilities at the home were both exceptional.

The staff were welcoming and friendly and made the whole respite experience an extremely gentle one.

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Review from S R (Respite Resident) published on 5 October 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

I came in for respite care after a hip operation. I came out very rested - walking well. Just what I needed. Not much to do if you are able bodied - but to be expected really!

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Review from Ian D (Son of Resident) published on 22 September 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother became a resident at Merlewood on the 20th July 2017 for end of life care. She has now sadly passed away. My family and I consider ourselves lucky to have found such a wonderful nursing home. From the kind, caring staff on all levels looking after not only my mother but caring for us as well, nothing was too much trouble.

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Review from Dilys K (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 May 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
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My Mother stayed at Merlewood for over four years. In that time, although she felt that it would take away her independence, she soon realised that the company and very comfortable surroundings were better than being alone. She was encouraged to take part in many activities, but if not feeling up to participating would enjoy the chat with carers in the gardens. Everything was done that could be done to make her feel welcome and cared for.

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Review from J K (Resident / Service User) published on 3 May 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

I have been a resident for 6 years and I note that the cleanliness of all parts is immaculate and the standard of upkeep and decoration is very high. Lunch is served in the dining room and the food is varied - 3 main meals each day (fish, meat and vegetarian) and vegetables are served separately. Meals may be served in your room if preferred.

The carers are kind and cheerful and do splendid work. Some have been here for many years.

Activities are varied - scrabble, crosswords, shopping trips, visits to places of beauty and interest.

The grounds are extensive and well maintained, and carers take residents round in wheelchairs on sunny days.

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Review from Paul B (Cousin of Resident) published on 21 April 2017 Submitted via Review Postal Card
Overall Experience

My cousin, aged 95, was living alone and felt isolated. We all decided it would be better for her to come into care. Since being at Merlewood she has benefitted from the kindness and caring professional staff. Now she has the option of socialising with other residents. She has recently been very unwell and has been nursed back to health by a dedicated team. We are all delighted with the positive attitude of all the staff from housekeeping to catering to social events. We could not have made a better choice.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 22 May 2019
Overall
Good
  • CaringGood
  • EffectiveGood
  • ResponsiveGood
  • SafeGood
  • Well-ledGood
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 (0) & Events (0)

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Awards / Recognitions (4)

Accreditations

There are no accreditations posted yet for Merlewood.

Meet the Team (6)

Debbie Vellender
Debbie VellenderJob Title General ManagerJoined 2013

Debbie trained as a nurse at St George’s Hospital, Tooting and Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton in the 90s. This was followed by over 20 years of nursing in the NHS, mainly within Medical and Elderly care, working her way to the position of Advanced (Clinical) Site Practitioner at a large local hospital. It was during this time that Debbie’s passion for care of the elderly blossomed, along with the personal fulfilment of getting to know people in her care and their families.

Debbie moved into Social Care at Merlewood in 2013 as Deputy/Clinical Care Manager to use her skills and experience in a different aspect of elderly medical care. In 2019, Debbie became General Manager of the home. Debbie gets huge satisfaction from leading a team of like-minded, compassionate individuals; Merlewood residents and staff have become a second family to her.

Pat Murphy
Pat MurphyJob Title Clinical Care Manager - Deputy ManagerJoined 2015
I started my nursing career at 'The Berkshire College of Nursing and Midwifery' in 1992, I qualified in 1995.
After qualifying as a nurse, I worked in various hospitals but predominantly in the cardiology departments.

I eventually left the NHS after 15 years to pursue a career in the care home sector.

Initially, I was employed as a Deputy Manager, but soon I was promoted to the General Manager.

I came to work at Merlewood as the Unit Manager on McAlpine in 2015. I loved the role and the home, but left for a promotion.

However, I returned to Merlewood as the Clinical Care Manager in April 2022.

Working at Merlewood Care Home is so satisfying. The staff and residents are very special people.

Molly Horne
Molly HorneJob Title Hotel Services ManagerJoined 2022

After leaving school, I completed a chef apprenticeship with Compass Group, where I gained experience in recipe development and had the opportunity to work at high-profile events such as Wimbledon and The Brit Awards.

I went on to further my career as the lead hospitality chef at Brunel University and then Roehampton Golf Course before taking on the role of Bar and Café Manager. This shift to a more management-focused position led me to my role with EFH as the Hotel Services Manager at Merlewood, where I now oversee the Housekeeping and Catering teams.

My role focuses on ensuring that our residents receive the best possible service from each of my departments every day.

Tony
Tony Job Title Maintenance OfficerJoined 2023

I look after a small maintenance crew that maintains Merlewood’s incredible 23-acre gardens and supports our 54 residents.

I thoroughly enjoy my varied work here at Merlewood Care Home — every day is different and satisfying in so many ways.

Our maintenance team ensures the building, grounds, and equipment are safe, functional, and comfortable for both residents and staff. I always recognise that this is our residents’ home, and my goal is to help them enjoy the comforts they deserve while our team quietly takes care of the chores in the background.

Karen Slater
Karen SlaterJob Title Weekday ReceptionistJoined 2024

I am the weekday receptionist here at Merlewood Care Home. I am new to the care sector.

I really enjoy my job. I take pride in welcoming residents, visitors and families, offering support and kindness every day.

This year, I was nominated by my line manager and won the award for 'Best Care newcomer - South'.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family (especially my grandchildren), gardening, walking and catching up with friends over coffee.

Sue Stroud
Sue StroudJob Title Community LeadJoined 2024
I have worked in the care sector for nearly 20 years. It's a very rewarding industry to work in.
I specialise in Sales and Marketing. I have taken many courses to improve my skills and knowledge.
I initially started my career in recruitment, owning several recruitment agencies before I moved to the Hotel Industry as a Sales and Marketing manager, eventually becoming a Sales Director for a small chain of hotels.
I was then 'headhunted' by a care provider and soon realised this was the career path that I thrived in.
Listening and understanding a potential resident's wants and needs for the next chapter of their life is a great honour and a huge responsibility.
I have worked for many of the large corporate providers, but I am currently enjoying working for this fabulous, smaller charity/provider that is resident-led.

Elizabeth Finn is a 'Profit for Purpose' business.

In my spare time, I enjoy my family, friends and walking my large Golden Retriever.

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