Oakwood House

Stollery Close, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 2GD
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9.7 27 Reviews
  • Oakwood House, Ipswich
Oakwood House is a nursing home that offers complex care specialising in mental health.

Whether it’s reducing anxiety or pro-actively managing pain, knowing every resident individually lets staff deliver friendly, support that’s always one step ahead.

Oakwood House employs its own fully-qualified nursing care team.
Registered general and mental health nurses work alongside specially trained care staff. They ensure continuity of care, 24 hours a day.

Set in extensive private gardens with the family-style living accommodation spans three individually-themed units: Clover, Honeysuckle and Lavender.

Mostly at ground level, all units offer private bedrooms, each with its own en-suite toilet, walk-in shower, nurse call system and infra-red movement monitor. Residents with mobility challenges can transfer safely with ease thanks to ceiling hoists in all rooms and lounges.
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

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

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care

Care Types Provided

  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 24 Service Users

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

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

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Michala Hartley-Brown (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Restricted Admission Criteria
  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (24)
  • Single Rooms with Ensuite Wet Room (24)

Visiting

  • Safe Visiting Room and Enhanced Nominated Visitor appointments available .

Parking

  • Parking On-site for Visitors

Oakwood House Reviews (27)

9.7

Oakwood House has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.722) out of 10, based on 13 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Oakwood House has 27 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Reviewer Connection to Oakwood House
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Total of 27, showing 1-20
Review from Dawn B (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
I have found the staff at Oakwood very polite and helpful. I can see that the nurses and the domestic staff are very caring to the residents in general. Mum's room is clean and tidy. Mum's room is always very clean and her clothes are her own not muddled up as I have known in other residences. The new
gardener is amazing and is making the home look very well presented. It's lovely to see this. I am aware of lots of activities for my mum. Sadly Mum has been in bed on one occasion in the morning. It was a shame she was not got up for this as she does like to be involved.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for this positive feedback. I will ensure Mum is involved in all the activities unless she is physically unwell at the time.

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Review from Sally T (Sister of Resident) published on 16 October 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
As a family, we are very grateful to the staff at Oakwood House for their kind support for my brother who has complex mental and physical needs.
It's a relief to know that he is in a safe place and being cared for by supportive and caring staff.
They have even given him daily tasks and interests by
purchasing tropical fish and budgerigars for my brother to assist with looking after and he was able to help with the setting up and then managing of the tank etc. This has given him purpose and has helped boost his feeling of self worth.
He often tells us of crafts and other entertainment he has been involved with the members of staff and they do their best to keep him occupied.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for this wonderful feedback. Your brother is a wonderful asset to our home.

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Review from M C (Wife of Resident) published on 4 October 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My husband has been a resident of Oakwood House for nearly four years now. Where have those years gone as Oakwood just feels like our extended home. The management and staff are all so thoughtful and caring. They have patience and spend time with all the residents in their care, however complex needs
are. The activities team work wonders in providing a variety of special days which residents, their families and staff all take part in and enjoy. The garden has improved with a regular gardener who keeps it looking nice for all to enjoy. Oakwood is a happy, caring respectful environment for residents, their family and friends. Words can't express how grateful we are personally and would strongly recommend Oakwood to anyone who has a relative who needs specialist care that the home provides.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for the wonderful review. Integration of residents' families is very important to us and the residents. We always aim for a homely environment where both residents and their relatives feel comfortable and inclusive

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Review from F R (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 October 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My father required nursing home care. The Management did everything they could to support a good transition for him. He has received first class care and attention from the nurses, carers and all auxiliary staff working in the nursing home. Our mum also required nursing care, and fortunately, a room
vacancy at Oakwood House meant she was able to be in the same nursing home, close to our dad. The atmosphere in the nursing home is friendly, caring, patient and supportive. Events and activities are planned and enjoyed by residents and their visitors too. My siblings and I, have been delighted to see how well our parents have been cared for, when we visited Oakwood House. I don't live locally and am pleased the communication with the staff at Oakwood House has been excellent when I call (or visit) to get updates on my parents.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you so much for this lovely review. Both your Mum and Dad were a pleasure to care for.

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Review from Pauline D (Sister-in-law of Resident) published on 27 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot praise Oakwood House enough. Every member of the staff have welcomed my brother-in-law into the home. Nothing is too much trouble for them and everything is done with a smile. The food served is outstanding and he has gained weight already which he needed. The bedrooms are spacious with ensuite
shower and furnished well. The lounges are bright, spacious and have a welcome decor. The gardens are well tended - my brother-in-law loves to be outside in the fresh air. The staff always welcome me whenever I visit. We are so lucky to have found a home where he is safe, happy and well cared for.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Wow what a wonderful review to read. Thank you so much for putting the time and effort in to writing this review for us. To know we are getting it right and making positive changes to people's lives is the best feeling. Thank you.

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Review from J S (Son of Resident) published on 27 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Currently, I feel a great sense of relief when I visit my father in Oakwood House. After only a few visits I can see he is being well cared for, but also looked after in a way that gives him some sense of existence and safeguarding. Compared to a home that we had to 'rescue' him from the whole set-up
at Oakwood seems calm and dignified. From my very first visit, I found the overall vibe to be friendly and welcoming, from all the staff members.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you so much for this wonderful review. To know that you are now happy with the care that your father is getting from Oakwood means a lot to us and is exactly what we aim to achieve.

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Review from P P (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My father has been a resident at Oakwood House for just over three weeks. Since our initial contact a few months ago, to now, we have been extremely impressed with Oakwood House. All the staff have been so kind and welcoming to my father, and to us all as a family. There is a strong sense of community
within Oakwood House. My father has settled in very well there, the staff have gone above and beyond to ensure that all his complex needs are being met, and continue to do so as his condition sadly deteriorates. Having been cared for at home for several years, it was a heartbreaking decision for my father to be moved into a care home. So it is huge comfort to us as a family to see him being cared for so well at Oakwood House. Thank you.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you so much for this very lovely review. In such a short time your father and family have become a wonderful part of our home. He is an absolute pleaser to care for.

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Review from J A (Power of Attorney of Resident) published on 24 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
She always appears content and well cared for. She still enjoys her meals and treats and always has enough. The staff all seem to have a good relationship with her, as she does with them. The home itself is clean and well-maintained.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you for taking the time to write this very valued review.

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Review from Elizabeth A (Wife of Resident) published on 23 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The first time I visited Oakwood House, before my husband moved in, I was aware of an atmosphere of calm, kindness, and care. I wasn't mistaken, my husband is in the best place for his complex needs. As a retired nurse, I may have greater insight into my husband's care needs but I've never felt any
concern. Thank you, Oakwood for all you do.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. Receiving a review like this from a professional who understands our challenges means a lot to us.

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Review from E F (Sister of Resident) published on 23 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My sister moved from another care home that was not meeting her needs at all and now has the good fortune to be cared for by Oakwood House. She is very much happier and is enjoying engaging with fellow residents. It is evident that staff are always encouraging her to become increasingly independent
and even though she is reluctant the staff have a positive attitude toward her. I have felt included in the identification of her care needs and desires, I have always felt welcome and the home has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I would have no hesitation in recommending this home, as a safe and dignified place for meeting a resident's needs.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for this positive review. Your sister has settled in so quickly and brings us lots of laughter. She is a pleasure to care for. Thank you.

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Review from Sharon and Maureen B (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My dad is happy in the care home we enjoy going to visit him. Dad is settled after being there for nearly 12 years. I love to see the other residents and love talking to them, overall it's a good home.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you for your positive review. We really appreciate your feedback.

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Review from H R (Sister of Resident) published on 20 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My younger brother has been in Oakwood since 2022 and it was so difficult coming to the decision for him to go to a care facility. However, my concerns and guilt were unfounded as he has settled in really well and is happy in his environment. The carers all love him and treat him like family, and his
well-being is priority to them. The staff stay in touch with me which helps as he is not close by anymore, and it's so hard not to be able to just pop in, so knowing he is well cared for and the fact they message me about him helps a lot.
Apart from the fact that he is no longer around the corner to me, I can now relax knowing that he is happy and thriving as much as he can be.
I am really happy with the relationship I have with Oakwood and would be reluctant now to have him move away from there.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you so much for this heartfelt review. We fully understand how difficult the decision was for you to make and now you have both become a massive part of our bigger family. Your brother brings us much pleasure to care for and we would not be without him, or you!

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Review from Mel L (Sister of Resident) published on 20 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The entire team at Oakwood have welcomed my sister into what feels like their home.
They are very attentive and caring in every way. They also meet and greet her visitors with the same kindness.
The facilities are very clean, spacious and welcoming.
My sister is very lucky to be in their care.
Thank
you!
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for this lovely feedback. Your sister is a pleasure to care for and makes us laugh daily. She has very quickly become a part of our family and we enjoy visits from her very supportive and wonderful sisters.

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Review from J G (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 September 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since my Mother has been in the wonderful care of Oakwood she's a different person, it has enabled me to have a relationship with my Mother again after some very difficult years. The management and staff are always happy to help and they show my Mother love and care whilst still encouraging her independence.
I thank them so very much, this is truly an amazing place filled with staff with expertise in providing care with love and dignity.
Reply from Michala Hartley-Brown, Manager at Oakwood House

Thank you very much for this very positive review. It is a pleasure to care for your mum and so pleased that her being with us has enabled you to rebuild that positive relationship.

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Review from Ruth W (Partner of Resident) published on 3 February 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My partner was cared for by Oakwood House from 2018 until 2021. All of the staff treated him with great dignity and respect and gave him the choice of participating in activities or staying to himself. I cannot thank enough the staff for the care and love they gave to him and me, too. This created a
very warm and friendly atmosphere. During my visit, I was warmly welcomed into this nice and caring community. When his health deteriorated, they were very supportive of me during this very difficult time. The nurses kept me informed about his state of health. They offered me the opportunity to keep in touch regularly with my partner via Skype, as I do not live in England and could no longer visit him because of the pandemic. Unfortunately, my beloved partner passed away in December. He was allowed to stay in Oakwood until the very end. The staff stood by me with loving sympathy. I would highly recommend Oakwood House. It is a happy home that is excellently managed.
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Review from Tina S (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 January 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We cannot thank the staff and manager enough for all the care and support they have shown to Dad and the family since he was moved to Oakwood House, it was a very anxious and stressful time as Dad was very challenging. The care and professionalism the whole team have shown to Dad and the family is next
to none, they show so much care, love, patience, sensitivety, warmth, respect and they always manage to have a smile and be happy. It is such a comfort to know Dad is understood and treated with such a high level of dignity we cannot thank everybody enough, Dad is so much calmer and happier now he has settled, it has given us a part of Dad back which we thought had been lost. We would strongly recommend Oakwood House for your loved one as the family is as important as the resident, thank you all.
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Review from James P (Son of Resident) published on 6 January 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My dad has been a resident at Oakwood House for more than eight years now and although there have been many changes during that time he has continued to receive the best possible care. The staff are always friendly and welcoming and continued to have a smile on their faces even during these frustrating
times with Covid. I cannot wait for normal visits to resume but fully understand the need for a booking and test system.
Since the manager has been in charge, the home and garden has had a wonderful face lift including the reception, each flat and kitchen/dining area, she has also implemented new facilities e.g a pool table and tranquility room where residents can have their hair and nails done.
My dad is very settled here and I would more than recommend Oakwood House to other families who are looking for a caring environment.
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Review from S W (Partner of Resident) published on 6 January 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My partner has been in Oakwood House since January 2021. He is very settled there and is always treated with loving care, the staff are all incredible, they show loving care, are friendly and helpful to him and myself when I visit. He is always happy to see all the staff if they have been off duty.
When I first visited the home needed quite a lot of TLC as had not been kept up to scratch. The most recent manager has now redecorated and it’s looking very nice.
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Review from J M (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 January 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My mum has been living in Oakwood for over 5 years now, we've seen many staff changes in that time but I do feel things are now more stable. The manager has been very supportive of my needs and understands my mum well. Physical changes are gradually being made and the home is looking less shabby now.
My only criticisms are the lack of keeping families updated of changes and the overall cost when self-funding.
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Review from S T (Sister of Resident) published on 6 January 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The home has had a thorough transformation over the last year and more. It is bright and welcoming for the residents with some rooms individually personalised which has a homely feel for them.
The staff are approachable for relatives regarding any queries they may have and are very kind and treat each
resident as an individual.
I have, on several occasions, had to have confidential conversations with the manager regarding my relative whether that was by telephone or in-person and I have always been accommodated there and then.
Unfortunately due to the pandemic, there has not been many entertainers but hopefully, that will be rectified as soon as the covid regulations allow as the activities were amazing pre-pandemic.
Anyone who has a relative that has specific care needs should undoubtedly give this home consideration to ascertain its merits.
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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.722)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.722) out of 10 for Oakwood House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 13 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 13 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 4.722 for Oakwood House is calculated as follows: ( (110 Excellents x 5) + (28 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 144 Ratings = 4.722
  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 Oakwood House is based on 13 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 24 registered maximum number of service users is 4.8, which has been reached with 13 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: 7 Oct 2020

Overall Good

  • Caring Good
  • Effective Requires improvement
  • 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

No Bed Vacancies

Posted: 12 Sep 2025

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

Meet the Team (1)

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Michala Hartley-Brown

Job Title: Home Manager Joined: 2025

Michala is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and operational oversight of the care home, ensuring the highest standards of care and compliance with regulatory requirements. This role involves strategic planning, staff supervision, budget management, and fostering a safe, compassionate, and person-centred environment for residents.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oakwood House

What types of Care is Oakwood House registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition, Physical Disability & Visual / Hearing Impairment are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Oakwood House have?

There are 24 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Oakwood House?

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 are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Oakwood House to the centre of Ipswich?

3.6 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

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