Heanton Nursing Home

Heanton Punchardon, Barnstaple EX31 4DJ
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9.3 23 Reviews
  • Heanton Nursing Home, Barnstaple
Heanton Nursing Home is registered for all care categories and stands in the peaceful village of Heanton Punchardon in the heart of Devon. The home is set in grounds overlooking the estuary, with views of the surrounding countryside.

Evolve Care Group recognises that each individual is unique. The approach of the team at Heanton is person-centred and they uphold high standards in privacy, dignity, independence and choice.

Heanton Nursing Home has a lot to offer, including excellent accommodation and lovely home-cooked food, which helps to make the residents, fondly referred to as family members, life pleasant and comfortable.

The friendly and highly experienced team have undertaken intensive training, which has resulted in a revolutionary model of care being implemented at the home. Termed the household model, this approach to care has its origins in research completed in Australia and North America.

The model is about creating smaller communities or families within a home and breaking away from institutional approaches to care. This results in a better quality of life for the person receiving the service and their family.

Heanton Nursing Home has been rated Outstanding by CQC - April 2021
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Younger Adults

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 52 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

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

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Stairlift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Funding Types Accepted

  • Self Funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Abigail Denford (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 50+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No
  • Last Refurbishment: 2024
  • Number of floors: 3

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (52)

Visiting

  • As part of their household model of care, they don’t believe in having set visiting hours – you should be able to visit your relatives or friends whenever you like, just as you would if they were living in their own home. You are welcome to visit day and night, and the team encourage you to feel comfortable and treat it as an extension of your loved one’s home. They recommend calling in advance so they can make sure that it doesn’t clash with any trips out or doctors appointments.

Parking

  • Heanton Nursing Home has a large carpark, overlooking stunning views of the Devon countryside.

Heanton Nursing Home Reviews (23)

9.3

Heanton Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.3 (9.347) out of 10, based on 9 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Heanton Nursing Home has 23 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
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Reviewer Connection to Heanton Nursing Home
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Total of 23, showing 1-20
Review from D D (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 July 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since moving to Heanton Nursing Home, my father has been settled and happy. An individual and holistic care plan has ensured his care is personalised. Staff throughout the home are caring, patient and intuitive to dads' needs. There is a happy atmosphere, lots of laughter, empathy and a feeling of family.
Activities are encouraged, a lovely garden with a stunning view. The food is excellent and individualised if needed.
Reply from Marketing Department, Marketing Department at Heanton Nursing Home

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, we're delighted to hear that your dad feels settled here. We're so pleased you've noticed the welcoming atmosphere, the activities, and our beautiful surroundings and we'll be sure to share your kind words with all of the team.

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Review from Guy R (Nephew of Resident) published on 4 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Normally I loath writing a review about any service or product as I am a firm believer in one persons meat is another persons poison, and what I see as good maybe bad for another. However, in this instance I am breaking the long standing rule I have had. If ever there was an example of never judge a
book by its cover then Heanton Nursing Home is it. Although, the building and facilities look tired and worn the nursing care for the residents, as far as I have witnessed it, is beyond reproach. I have seen with my own eyes the whole team demonstrate a level of care, nursing, professionalism, patience and restraint that an angel would be proud of. Peeling wall paper, chipped paint and knocked around doors, in my mind, do not matter - the doors lock where they need to lock, and the chipped doors are no worse than in my home after the grandchildren have left. If my mother and father were alive today and needed a nursing home I would select Heanton without hesitation.
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Review from Paul E (Brother of Resident) published on 28 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Heanton was the only option.
For quite a while there was no check-in in operation. Was a screen (COVID), then nothing - now a paper system.
No introductory 'sales pitch'. We have (partly) established who is what in the 'pecking order'.
Good staff generally, who keep me informed re falls and UTI's
etc. Hospital noted lack of cleanliness for a recent hip op (social services aware).
Previous room smelly, current room much better. No idea about activities or value for money.
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Review from Arthur R (Husband of Resident) published on 4 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My wife has been a resident at Heanton Nursing Home for some time now, she requires both physical and mental care. The care is provided expertly by the staff at Heanton. They are very good at what they do, my wife can be quite volatile, screaming and angry one minute, to be happy and bubbly the next,
the staff all take this in their stride.


My wife needs emotional and medical care and Heanton provides both these through their very competent carers and their expert nursing team, plus doctors are available when required. After visiting my wife, I go home feeling happy that she is well looked after by all the staff. If I have any queries, the staff, be it the carers, nursing or management are all available to listen to you and offer support.


The internal decor of the home is quite tired and needs a good bit of refurbishment, but the home is on lovely grounds with views overlooking North Devon, the staff are reliable and are like family friends.

Reply from Jamie, Communications Team at Heanton Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind review. The team will be thrilled to receive such valuable feedback!

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Review from Sue L (Wife of Resident) published on 4 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am extremely pleased with the care for my husband. He is quite challenging and the staff have endless patience with him. I am sure he could not be better cared for anywhere else.
Reply from Jamie, Communications Team at Heanton Nursing Home

Hi there, thank you for your kind review, the team love to hear how they make such a positive difference in the lives of our family members!

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Review from A K (Respite Resident) published on 21 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
All the staff at Heanton seem very patient, friendly and attentive with all the residents. Staff make us very welcome every time we visit Mum and often have a chat with us. The food always looks nice and residents are given frequent snacks and drinks throughout the day.
Reply from Jamie, Communications Team at Heanton Nursing Home

Thank you for such wonderful feedback, the team will be delighted!

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Review from Jan T (Wife of Resident) published on 4 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The care is second to none, I cannot speak highly enough about every single member of staff, without exception, within the home.
It is a great comfort that my husband is so well cared for by Heanton Nursing Home and the team. Thank you.
Reply from Marketing Department, Marketing Department at Heanton Nursing Home

Hi there! Thank you so much for your kind words and we are so glad your husband is having a wonderful time and settled in Heanton! The entire team will be delighted to receive such valuable feedback. Kind Regards, Marketing Team.

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Review from Eve C (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Dad has been at Heanton since February 2022. The relationship and connection the team have built with him is incredible to see. You can see his eyes light up when they engage with him. They tell me about phrases he uses and there are the same phrases he would used when I was younger! They have ‘found
him’ in the midst of a very difficult journey.
Will be forever grateful.
Reply from Cammi, Marketing Department at Heanton Nursing Home

Hi there, we are so glad that your father has settled into our Heanton family so well and we love seeing our relationship with him grow. We value true connection in our home and love to share this with you! Thank you so much for your kind words, we really appreciate it!

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Review from Dorothy H (Wife of Resident) published on 18 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My husband is now part of the Heanton family. He has some challenging behaviour at times and health needs but all is dealt with by the lovely caring nursing and friendly carers.
Myself and our family are also part of their family as well and so welcoming.
The management has been so supportive to
me.
Nothing is too much trouble, to keep my husband cared for and safe at such a difficult time for us all. The catering staff deliver delicious food, especially cakes and puddings. The house is old but the rooms, and hallways are kept clean also everyone's clothes. Heanton is set in the beautiful North Devon countryside. We enjoy a walk and sit in the garden, relaxing with stunning views.
Thank you all.
Reply from Cammi, Marketing Department at Heanton Nursing Home

Hi there, thank you so much for your kind words, we really appreciate it! We are more than happy to support you and your husband and glad that he has settled so well into our Heanton family. We also love the food! I will be sure to share this with the team. Kind regards,

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Review from Jakki M (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My father has been a resident at Heanton for over two years. Although he suffers with severe dementia, he is very comfortable, quite content, safe and well cared for. The staff are all very friendly and they treat the residents with a lovely, personal approach - nothing is too much trouble. They are
well trained in how to deal with the dementia condition. Activities are arranged to occupy the family members and the staff take the time to sit and chat with Dad which he loves. They have been great during the last year in these difficult times, keeping me informed of anything concerning Dad, as visiting has been restricted during the lockdowns. The wellbeing and safety of the residents is always paramount which is a credit to the manager and her team.


I would not hesitate in recommending Heanton to anyone looking for a nursing home when their precious relative needs caring for.


The staff are amazing and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for the way they look after my dad.

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Review from Ellen (Wife of Resident) published on 25 August 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
All though my husband was only at the home for a short time I found the staff to be very supportive and friendly. They even managed to fulfil a life long wish of my husband. The care given to my husband was first class, especially as he was such a challenging client. I highly recommend the home and
would have no worries if I myself ended up as a client.
Reply from Josh, Communications & Engagement at Heanton Nursing Home

Thank you so much for your kind words, Ellen. He was a well-loved and cherished member of the Heanton family, who made a lasting impression on all of us at the home. We were delighted we could fulfill his lifelong wish of holding a meerkat which brought him so much happiness.

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Review from M H (Wife of Resident) published on 24 March 2020 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My husband has been at Heanton 18 months, he has been very challenging behaviour at times. The staff are well trained hot to handle the situation. Not only do they look after him, but they also support me. The home is improving facilities all the time, making it more like home. The staff are very caring
to all their family suffering from dementia. Every week there is outside entertainment as well as inhouse, the home is open to family and friends 24 hours a day with no restrictions.
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Review from Sharon E (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 March 2020 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
The zoo experience with the meerkat was fabulous. My dad really showed interaction and enjoyment with it.
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Review from P B (Son of Resident) published on 24 January 2020 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Was good to get Dad settled in a nice safe home, after being moved from pillar to post for six months. We could not be happier with the level of care he has at Heanton Nursing Home. The staff all seem dedicated and make it such a relaxed place to reside or visit.
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Review from William W (Friend of Resident) published on 27 February 2019 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Staff and residents friendly. Care appears good.
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Review from Marian G (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 November 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Heanton Nursing Home is a warm friendly and caring place. The staff are dedicated and deal with any situation efficiently. My mother can be quite challenging but they know exactly the best way to handle her. The residents are treated like family and my husband and I have always been welcomed. I would
have no hesitation in recommending Heanton to anyone who is looking for an outstanding nursing home.
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Review from B G (Son-in-law of Resident) published on 21 November 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff in the home is always helpful and understanding. They always explain what is happening and how my Mother in Law has been. They always speak to her and ask how she is. They always ask if I want a drink or something to eat. They are always polite. How they interact with the other family members
is excellent.
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Review from Julia T (Wife of Resident) published on 18 December 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My husband has been in Heanton nursing home for over 2 years. He is very well looked after. I can sleep at night knowing he is cared for.
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Review from June S (Friend of Resident) published on 11 December 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My friend has been at Heaton for over two years.
The care and staff are fantastic and do a wonderful job.
I have seen the care home and improve and I do like to extra rooms and corridor for sitting in.
The residents are well fed and I particularly like the fruit and cheese served in the morning.
I love the new kitchen upstairs. My only grumble - too much Radio 1 type music, should also play the older war-time songs as well.
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Review from P J (Partner of Resident) published on 1 December 2017 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I think it is a very caring place. The staff relate to my partner with dignity, respect and kindness. The ethos of the home is very person-centred, where they really try to be aware of and respond to each individual. I am very impressed but relieved with their high standard of care.
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Current Review Score: 9.3 (9.347)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.3 (9.347) out of 10 for Heanton Nursing Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.6 out of 5 from 9 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.8 out of 5 from 9 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 4.582 for Heanton Nursing Home is calculated as follows: ( (63 Excellents x 5) + (29 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 98 Ratings = 4.582
  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 4.765 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Heanton Nursing Home is based on 9 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 = 3.9
    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 52 registered maximum number of service users is 10.4. 9 Positive Reviews ÷ 10.4 = 0.865
  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: 21 Sep 2018

Overall Outstanding

  • Caring Outstanding
  • Effective Good
  • Responsive Good
  • Safe Good
  • Well-led Outstanding
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.

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Awards / Recognitions (1)

Meet the Team (2)

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Abigail Denford

Job Title: Home Manager Joined: 2021

Abigail Denford is the registered manager of Heanton Nursing Home.

Robin

Robin Mitchell

Job Title: Home Support Joined: 2007

"I have worked for Heanton Nursing Home for years now. I very much like the continuous progress the company makes in striving to make the people that live with us feel they are living in their own home. Our team at Heanton are growing all the time, being fully supported by our central support. We are evolving fast."

Frequently Asked Questions about Heanton Nursing Home

What types of Care is Heanton Nursing Home registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition & Younger Adults are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Heanton Nursing Home have?

There are 52 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Heanton Nursing Home?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Stairlift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Heanton Nursing Home to the centre of Barnstaple?

4.0 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 Heanton Nursing Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Heanton Nursing Home has an Enhanced Service - more info.