Barking Hall Nursing Home

Barking Road, Barking, Next Needham Market, Ipswich IP6 8HJ
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9.5 83 Reviews
  • Barking Hall Nursing Home, Ipswich
Barking Hall is a well-established care home set in beautiful surroundings just outside Needham Market in Suffolk. The dedicated team provides quality residential, nursing, and respite care, offering long-term carers a well-deserved break or holiday. Barking Hall supports residents with a range of needs, including dementia and frail physical health.

The home’s scenic countryside location, with its tranquil fountain and the sound of nearby church bells, makes it a sought-after choice for those needing palliative care. Many of the warm, caring staff are from the local community, adding to the home’s welcoming atmosphere.

Each en-suite bedroom is fully furnished, complete with telephone and TV points, but residents are encouraged to bring their own furniture and personal belongings to create a true ‘home-from-home’ feel.

Residents have access to an optician and chiropodist by appointment, and the in-house hair salon offers everything from cuts to manicures and hand massages. The head chef and catering team serve tasty, home-cooked meals, with special diets fully catered.

With two activities coordinators, residents can enjoy a variety of engaging options, from social events to quiet, individual pursuits – all tailored to personal interests and preferences.

To discover more about life at Barking Hall, call today to speak with one of their care advisers or to book a visit.
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 49 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
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £1590
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £1590

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Barking Hall Nursing Home to find out the exact price for your requirements.

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

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Anna Swed (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No
  • Last Refurbishment: 2004

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (49)
  • Single Rooms with Ensuite Wet Room (43)

Barking Hall Nursing Home Reviews (83)

9.5

Barking Hall Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.480) out of 10, based on 24 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Barking Hall Nursing Home has 83 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 61
  • 18
  • 1
  • 1
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Date Published
  • 83
  • 7
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  • 24
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Reviewer Connection to Barking Hall Nursing Home
  • 29
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  • 4
  • 2
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  • 1
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Total of 83, showing 61-80
Review from Betty M (Resident) assisted by family/friend published on 2 July 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
I feel safe here, especially at night. My needs are met, staff are friendly and helpful.
The chef will make me an omelette if I don't like the main choices.
Reply from Sue Oates, Manager at Barking Hall Nursing Home

Thank you so much for your review, it is our pleasure to care for you.

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Review from Doris D (Sister of Resident) published on 22 June 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5
My sister arrived from hospital to Barking Hall, after a fall at home, when found hours later she was taken to hospital because it was an extremely cold morning and her temperature became very low. She was in a confused state, ended up with an infection and suffering from delirium. She was sent to
Barking to recover.


Staff were very kind, but aspects of the nursing home I found worrying. Often daily records were not up to date, due I am sure always to lack of time for the staff to do this. No help was available to help encourage my sister to walk, as she had become very frightened to attempt to walk, even with a frame. When the heating went wrong in her bedroom it was 3 hrs before a small heater was found. 1 of the main bathrooms was out of order all the weeks I visited.


The time it took for a bell call response was nearly always around 10/15 mins. The toilet sensor light in the toilet goes off far to quickly to allow a frail person to use it, before being plunged into darkness.

Reply from Sue Oates, Manager at Barking Hall Nursing Home

Barking Hall welcomes input from every source, we operate an open and transparent service and strive to respond to all comments regarding our home and endeavour to affect any improvements or changes that may be necessary.


It is a great shame that the relative in question did not feel able to come to us in February with her feelings and waited four months before making her feelings known. I am sure the team from the hospital would have been keen to discuss these matters with her. The team visited each delirium resident weekly and offered professional input at these visits including physiotherapy and a social worker to support both resident and family members.


I agree, when the really cold weather hit in February, the home’s heating system did need some attention and our maintenance man called in the plumbing team to rectify matters. He also went out and purchased portable oil heaters for those residents whose rooms were affected. Extra blankets and duvets were used in the short term. During the snow that affected the local area, the manager and several of our staff slept at the home to ensure the safety of all our residents.

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Review from M C (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 May 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Mum came to Barking Hall on the 2nd May 2018 from hospital after suffering two strokes. From the first visit to view the rooms to Mum moving here, we have had nothing but excellent services from all the lovely carers, nurses and management. After reading the CQC report I was a little sceptical but
the manager and staff have done an amazing job. My family and I are always made to feel welcome and the staff constantly provide us with food etc. I must say the food is amazing too!
Mum is getting the best care here and I couldn’t ask for better. I have also spent the night and experienced a lovely breakfast! I would highly recommend Barking Hall. Mums health has sadly deteriorated quite quickly since leaving hospital and she is receiving the best palliative care.
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Review from R B (Resident) published on 7 March 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Since I have been here quite a while, there have been many changes, some good and some bad. Not any body's fault. I think we are thinking the atmosphere is better which makes for a happy home.
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Review from Shirley W (Resident) published on 21 February 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent care by very helpful nurses and other staff. The food provided is very good and all services are provided with really good care and help.
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Review from Kathleen M (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 February 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My dad has been here for six weeks and is happy and cared for. My hope is he can stay here as, at 96 years, I do not think it would be helpful to move him now. My father is very comfortable.
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Review from June F (Resident) published on 9 October 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
I have lived here for the last three years and have found it to be a pleasant experience. The residents are treated with kindness and dignity. Entertainment is provided most days of the week and there are trips out to local places of interest. Indoor amusement includes bingo, arts and crafts, music
and quizzes. The only negative comment I have is regarding the occasional delay in answering the bell for my toilet needs.
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Review from J C (Regular Volunteer) published on 14 September 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Always seems a lovely place when I visit each week. Residents seem happy and well cared for.
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Review from Josie I (Wife of Resident) published on 25 July 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My husband was transferred from Shotley Ward, Ipswich Hospice for rest and rehabilitation after a stroke and fractured skull.
He has in my opinion been shown great medical care and dignity. I have also found the staff and management very kind, helpful and attentive to my husband's needs and welfare.
Their support to my husband and myself has been exemplary.
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Review from A W L (Wife of Resident) published on 12 July 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I was very happy with everything that Barking Hall did for my husband. He was treated with care and dignity in his last days.
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Review from V T (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 June 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent care and attention at all times both when dad was in respite and then permanent. He was very happy in Barking Hall Nursing Home.
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Review from Juanita M (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 June 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I would like to thank all the staff of Barking Hall. I believe they made my Dad's last few weeks easier for him. Couldn't have asked for anything more. We knew he only had approximately 3 months to live, but he deteriorated quite quickly at the end. Very caring staff. Thank you.
Reply from Amanda Thornsby, Homes Manager at Barking Hall Nursing Home

Dear Juanita,
It was both a pleasure and privilege to care for your father. My staff really appreciate the recognition for their positive and caring contribution, so I shall proudly share your comments with them all.
Sadly the time spent in our peaceful, tranquil and beautiful home was shorter than expected but he still made an impression upon us all and will be remembered fondly.
Please do not be a stranger to Barking Hall, if passing, do call in for a welcome break, bring a friend and enjoy a cup of coffee, fresh cakes are always available too!

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Review from Susheela T (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 May 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Everything about Barkng Hall worked for myself and my father. The staff (care) and nursing were all kind and professional went the extra mile and did not show any negative attitudes. My father, although bed-ridden in later life was content, relaxed and always clean and comfortable, be it in bed or dressed
and sitting in the sitting room. I know he felt safe! The overall atmosphere is warm, friendly, inviting, inclusive and welcoming. I really cannot express adequately my deep gratitude to all the staff there, in a job that is understandably hard work, both physically and emotionally and frankly, underpaid and undervalued! Hooray for Barking Hall!
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Review from Michael C (Son of Resident) published on 24 April 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Mum was very well looked after and cared for.
Her family and friends who visited her were treated very well.
The staff from the nurses, HCAs, cleaning staff and all involved with mum's care were excellent.
Thank you all.
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Review from Kevin F (Son of Resident) published on 10 April 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Barking Hall cared for both my mother and father during their last few months.
Throughout, both received the highest level of care and support through ill health. As family members, we were always consulted and advised of any changes or developments. The staff showed care and compassion to us as a
family too, as we battled through some difficult days. Despite this having been one of the most difficult periods of my adult life, I will always remember the professionalism of the team at Barking Hall and will forever be in their debt.
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Review from Carol F (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 March 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother spent three weeks in Barking Hall Nursing Home to recuperate after a period in hospital. Her admission to Barking Hall Nursing Home was dealt with both professionally and compassionately by a member staff and we are grateful for her caring approach during this period of my mother's ill health.
Her stay at Barking Hall Nursing Home provided the rest and support she required regaining her health and confidence. Staff were always smiling and positive in their approach to their work.
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Review from Mandy T (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 January 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have never felt so at home and I am only visiting my mum. They are all helpful and kind. Not one of them doesn't help you and if they can't do something, they find out for you. The food is fantastic, they try so hard to please. The home is kept well maintained and clean.
The laundry, well some of
it goes missing, like all homes and these people find it if you say to them what it is and they don't mind.
The nurses are great and if any problems, they are on the ball to call the doctor out.
I can't say any more than it is run like a family home and all in the home are excellent.
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Review from Robin T (Son-in-law of Resident) published on 18 January 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I feel comfortable and people in the home all talk and help. They treat all residents with respect and kindness. All staff work hard and even if it's not their job, they don't mind helping.
Food is very good. It's fresh and what I like, is that they ask everyone individually what they like and they
make sure they have water and drinks.
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Review from Jane F (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 April 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My father came to Barking Hall Feb 2015 for palliative care having been told he had only days to live, with the care of all the staff, we managed to have dad in our lives for a extra ten months. He had a lovely clean room which overlooked the gardens and wildlife. All the staff were fantastic nothing
too much trouble, they made his and our time at Barking Hall a much better time for his last few months of life. The manager was also available to chat to if we needed her and the nurses kept us informed of any changes in his health and care plan. The care staff were so kind and caring and dad loved having a chat with them all. Dad had much fun in activities and enjoyed all that went on. The kitchen catered for his diet well and there was always a choice of food to be had. This is a very friendly, caring and happy nursing home, and dad was well looked after right up till he passed away January this year. I would recommend this home if you are looking for somewhere for your loved ones.
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Review from Elizabeth P (Daughter of Resident) published on 8 April 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother was at Barking Hall for a short time up to her death in November. My sister and I were very reassured to know that she was an a safe, supportive and caring place. We were impressed by the quality of the staff across all roles at the home. They always treated Mum as an individual, relating
to her as a person not just as an illness. She knew she was being well looked after. Staff were also very supportive of us as relatives.
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Current Review Score: 9.5 (9.480)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.5 (9.480) out of 10 for Barking Hall Nursing Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.5 out of 5 from 24 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 23 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:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.480 for Barking Hall Nursing Home is calculated as follows: ( (177 Excellents x 5) + (80 Goods x 4) + (13 Satisfactorys x 3) + (4 Poors x 2) + (7 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 281 Ratings = 4.48
  2. 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 Barking Hall Nursing Home is based on 23 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 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
    2. 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 49 registered maximum number of service users is 9.8, which has been reached with 23 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. 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: 6 Mar 2019

Overall Good

  • Caring Good
  • 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. View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

5 Bed Vacancies

Posted: 13 Sep 2025

We provide permanent and respite accommodation for individuals with residential, nursing, respite, palliative, nursing dementia and specialist care needs. Our services include complete en-suite and basin with WC rooms. Additionally, we offer privately funded, local authority, and NHS-funded placements

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Awards / Recognitions (9)

Meet the Team (8)

Anna

Anna Swed

Job Title: Home Manager

I enjoy supporting the team to deliver excellent care and creating the right environment for residents to thrive. I always take the time to understand their needs and keep an open-door policy. With NVQ Level 5 and over 15 years of experience, I bring the skills to make a difference.

Nisha

Nisha Kurian

Job Title: Deputy Manager

I am a registered nurse from India with training in management, end-of-life care, and clinical leadership. I enjoy the clinical side of my role, focusing on audits, compliance, and medication management. My priority is delivering person-centred care and building strong relationships with residents and their families.

Tanya

Tanya Bolger

Job Title: Activities Coordinator

I love working with our great team and look forward to every shift. The personal bonds I share with each resident are unique, and I use my photography and artistic skills to enhance their experience in the home.

Claire Jane

Claire Jane Campbell

Job Title: Activities Coordinator

I love being part of an amazing team at Barking Hall, building strong connections across all departments. I enjoy interacting daily with residents and their families. My experience managing my own hair salon, combined with Health & Safety training, gives me a solid foundation for my role.

Ray

Ray Miles

Job Title: Maintenance Manager

I enjoy the challenges at Barking Hall, where no two days are the same. I enrich residents' lives by making it feel like home for them. I have training in Carpentry, LPG Gas fitting, Health and Safety, and ongoing job-specific courses.

Korrie

Korrie Bennett

Job Title: Head Chef

I enjoy working with the people here and the freedom I have in the kitchen. I prioritise residents' needs, considering their likes and dislikes. I've completed an NVQ in Food, Hygiene, and Catering, Nutritional Therapy, and Level 2 in Food Hygiene.

Abi

Abi Jolly

Job Title: Head Housekeeper

I enjoy working with a great team at Barking Hall across all areas, not just housekeeping. I build strong relationships with residents through daily conversations and helping with simple requests. With over 10 years of cleaning experience, including running my own business, I have the necessary qualifications.

Percy

Percy The Peacock

Job Title: Grounds Engagement

I enjoy walking freely around the grounds at Barking Hall, greeting visitors with a friendly hello. I enrich residents' lives by showing them my beautiful feathers, and sometimes they even give me treats! Having roamed the area for about 15 years, I know it well.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Barking Hall Nursing Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Barking Hall Nursing Home has an Enhanced Service - more info.