Chocolate Works

Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 1DE
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9.5 56 Reviews
  • Chocolate Works, York
The Chocolate Works in York is a unique care home set within a beautifully restored, historic building. Once the headquarters of Terry’s Chocolate factory, the building was transformed in 2017 into the warm and welcoming care village it is today.

The dedicated team provides a range of personalised care services, including residential, nursing and dementia care. They also offer compassionate end-of-life care, to ensure a home for life as residents' needs change.

Inside the welcoming home, residents can enjoy a variety of luxury amenities including a cinema room, hair salon, spa and gym. A highlight of the home is the light-filled atrium which features its own pub and sweet shop.

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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Eating Disorders
  • Learning Disability / Autism
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment
  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 102 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

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

Facilities

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

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1695
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1795
  • Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £2102
  • Self-Funded Nursing Dementia Care: from £2127

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Chocolate Works 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

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Jo Pickering (Deputy Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 55+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Last Refurbishment: 2017
  • Number of floors: 3

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (90)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (90)

Visiting

  • The Home is open for safe visits, 7 days a week, in line with current guidelines. Please get in touch with the reception team to book a visit.

Parking

  • Limited car parking is available on site, with additional spaces located in a private car park across the road from the care village.


    Please see reception for access to the private car park.

Chocolate Works Reviews (56)

Total of 56, showing 41-56
9.5

Chocolate Works has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.478) out of 10, based on 24 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Chocolate Works has 56 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 41
  • 13
  • 0
  • 2
  • 0

Date Published

56
5
9
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Review from Michael G (Power of Attorney of Resident) published on 25 November 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This review is for a very dear friend who sadly, at the age of 91, could no longer live independently at home.
She had visited the Chocolate Works Care Village on a number of occasions over the past three years and had spent last Christmas Day visiting with us to have Christmas Dinner with our uncle
and the staff, so when she said it was time she moved into full-time care, Bishopthorpe Road was the place for her!
She had already met some of the staff and residents, so moving in was not too big a trauma for her. All the staff made her very welcome and her room was just like being back in her own home, with everything she needed (with much better bathroom facilities than she had!)
Everyone was so kind and helpful to her, she wanted for nothing (day or night). But sadly after been nursed for a very short time, she passed away very peacefully and with utmost dignity, with loving carers by her side (under the Covid-19 restrictions). Big thank you to you all.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review. With best wishes from us all at The Chocolate Works.

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Review from Jane W (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My father became a resident at The Chocolate Works in March. This was closely followed by the Coronavirus Lockdown, which meant that it has been a particularly difficult time for the family, being unable to visit and reassure him, and ourselves, that all was well. However, knowing that he is being so
well looked after, in comfortable surroundings, by such dedicated, cheerful and professional carers has made all the difference. We have especially appreciated the regular facilitation of video Skype sessions for the family, which have been so important in keeping us in touch with my father, and the staff. Their kindness, understanding, and appreciation of the individuality of each resident have shone through.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for your review which we look forward to sharing with our team. We're really pleased that you have been reassured at this particularly difficult time and hope it won't be too long before you're able to visit. With best wishes Springfield Healthcare

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Review from Michael A (Son of Resident) published on 10 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The care has been first class and during this virus, we have been kept very well informed. Mam appears to be very happy but in a confused state which is expected. Hopefully, she will be less confused when visiting restarts as restrictions are lifted.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for your review, we're really grateful to you for taking the time to write. So glad that she's happy and we hope that you're able to see each other soon. With best wishes Springfield Healthcare

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Review from Omar J (Grandson of Resident) published on 9 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent care and my Grandmother has been very impressed with the service provided in the first 4 weeks of being in here.
She's enjoying both the activities and the environment and recognises that COVID has limited the opportunities - but the home has adapted well.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for taking the time to write a review and we're really pleased that your grandmother is settling in well to her new home. With best wishes Springfield Healthcare

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Review from Helen B (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 23 March 2020
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother-in-law has very recently moved in for residential dementia care. From the very start of the process, we have been very impressed by every single member of staff. Even the day of actual admission went perfectly smoothly and we feel happy she is getting the best of care in a lovely home.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for taking the time to submit a review - it's lovely to be able to share this with colleagues. With very best wishes from us all. Springfield Healthcare.

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Review from Jane D (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 February 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Daughter of resident. I comment not only as an adult child who has an adored parent in The Chocolate Works but as a professional employed elsewhere (not The Chocolate Works, NHS or social care). As a counsellor to children, young people and adults affected by incurable illnesses and bereavement I see
person-centred care, compassion and professionalism in the everyday care at The Chocolate Works. Staff are tender and sweet, there is no rushing, no impatience and no intolerance. As a family, if we see or feel something isn't quite right staff are approachable and responsive. Nothing is too much trouble, all staff that I have witnessed or helped my relative are kind, tender and patient to all - not just my relative, who has been living at The Chocolate Works since the end of August 2019, but many others. I visit most days and leave for home relieved, reassured and know my relative is safe, happy and well cared for. Thank you to all staff and volunteers.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a heartfelt review. I hope it will help others who may be considering us for care, and it is certainly wonderful to share with our staff. With our best wishes Chocolate Works Care Village.

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Review from Mark W (Son of Resident) published on 6 August 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The love and care offered by The Chocolate Works made a material difference to the last few weeks of my mum's life. The whole team were the ultimate professionals from start to finish. Their kindness and dignity towards my mum was very special and this was matched by a wonderful environment. I can't
thank this team enough for all they did for the whole family. We are eternally grateful - so kind, so patient, so lovely.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for your kind words. It means a great deal to us to know that we made such a difference to your family.
With our love and best wishes.
Springfield Healthcare.

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Review from Valerie C (Niece of Resident) published on 26 July 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Visiting my aunt from Australia with my sister and her former employer, all three of us were impressed and overwhelmed but the magnificence of The Chocolate Works. The staff were extremely welcoming and made us tea and ensured we received privacy and time with my aunt.
Her room was sufficient for her
needs and the ambience of the main community area a model to be copied. I shall send pictures to the governing bodies in Australia currently investigating the poor standard of many of our Aged Care facilities.

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Review from Valerie W (Sister of Resident) published on 10 June 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My general opinion of The Chocolate Works is that of a well thought out, interesting environment coupled with well trained, caring, enthusiastic staff. The first floor (Riverside) seems to fare less well when it comes to activities e.g. children's visits/singing etc. Dementia suffers need extra stimulation
in this respect rather than sitting round an unwatched TV set and this is an area for improvement. Another downside is care of clothing, with many items going missing despite carrying clear name tags and others thrown haphazardly in wardrobes and drawers with little thought as to their value.
Overall, however, I am pleased with the care of my sister and the peace of mind I have for her future.

Reply from Sarah Paskett, Home Manager at Chocolate Works

Thank you for taking the time to post a review. We now have dedicated laundry staff and have recently reviewed all of our laundry processes.
Our new Wellbeing coordinator works full time and we are currently reviewing all the Activity provision, training sessions planned for all staff for wellbeing/ activities to supplement our current provision.
We treat all comments very seriously and are quite happy to discuss individual issues as they arise.
With best wishes.

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Review from Marylyn T (Sister-in-law of Resident) published on 10 June 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My sister in law entered The Chocolate Works in July 2017 initially in a nursing room and later transferred to a large care room.
At all times she was attended to with care and courtesy; certainly no lack of attention on a daily basis. The staff were equally receptive to my visits. The one complaint
would be the quality of the food.

Reply from Sarah Paskett, Home Manager at Chocolate Works

Thank you for taking the time to write a review. It is really helpful for staff and management. Your feedback regarding the food has been passed on to the hospitality team, it would be great if you would be able to attend one of our monthly food forums where we review menu choices and quality in order to provide feedback to our suppliers. Please also be aware that there are always alternatives available if the day's menu isn't to your sister-in-law's taste. Don't hesitate to get in touch if there is anything else we can do - we're here to help.
With kind regards.

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Review from H P (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 13 August 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

What an incredibly beautiful care home! Although what makes is so special is the members of staff currently working there. The wonderful chair lady is professional, friendly, informed. All of their smiles light up the amazing atrium.
Nanna's room is beautifully presented and is big and light. The
remaining lounge areas are peaceful and tastefully decorated. The chocolate cake looked to die for - covered in oozing buttercream sprinkles.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

What a lovely review, in particular the bit about members of our team lighting up the home with their smile - you are right - they really do! This review was a pleasure to read and I can't wait to share it with the team - thank you! Kind regards
Sally Rasmussen

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Review from Peter S (Son of Resident) published on 6 August 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been in The Chocolate Works for 2 weeks and everything has been as expected. The staff are friendly and attentive. I would like to mention one of the nursing staff who is absolutely fabulous.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for your kind review. I will pass your comments to the team. Best wishes
Sally Rasmussen

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Review from Don M (Son of Resident) published on 5 June 2018
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This is an outstanding place for mum to live. It's like a brand new 5-star hotel, beautifully decorated with comfortable and clean rooms, a lovely atrium for mum and her friends to meet and chat and very professional and caring staff. There is also a lovely cinema room as well as a range of activities
that keep everyone occupied and busy. One of the main benefits is that there is no use of TV's to keep the resident distracted in the main room, they are encouraged to interact with each other and they all get along very well. As a result, mum has been very happy, comfortable and has made some great friends with staff as well as other residents. Very highly recommended.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for your review, we really appreciate your taking the time to complete this as it really helps other families who are looking for the right care setting. Most importantly, though, we are really pleased to hear that your mum is happy and will be passing your comments to the team!

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Review from Bridget V (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 June 2018
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad was only in The Chocolate Works for a short time but everyone looked after him so well, the nurses, carers, kitchen staff, he was made to feel safe and cared for when he was scared about his illness, everyone had time for him, they went above and beyond to care for him and us too, his close family
and friends.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for your review, I will pass your kind words on to the team - they do such an amazing job and it's good to hear that you and your dad felt well supported at a very difficult and sad time. Sending you all our best wishes. Sally R

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Review from Alison B (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 November 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum came to Chocolate Works for end of life but with the help of the wonderful staff, the spa and reflexology, she gradually regained her strength and became independent. She made great friends.
The activities and the visits from the Chaplin were amazing. They held her a birthday party with cakes
and wonderful sandwiches. I am pleased to say that she is walking and back home on her own. We very much attribute this to you all.
Thank you.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Head of Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you so much for your lovely review. I will pass your comments on to the team.
With best wishes Sally Rasmussen

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Review from Jane B (Niece of Resident) published on 4 October 2017
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I would just like to thank all the wonderful staff and careers at the Chocolate works for welcoming my Aunt into their care.


It was not an easy time for us but it was made so much easier with their expert help and advice .
Not only has she settled and already started calling it "home", she has a

smile on her lovely face again.


After the difficult process of leaving her home she has, at last, found a new lease of life and says for the first time in months, she feels safe again.


Just days after moving into The Chocolate Works, it was her birthday and a fabulous party was organised by the staff for her to share it with the other residents.
Just to see her mixing with new friends and the joy on all their faces as they sang, laughed, shared their stories and tucked into party food was so lovely, I can't thank you all enough.


You have made a difficult time so much easier for us and to see her happy, safe and well cared for is all we ever wanted.


Thank you.

Reply from Sally Rasmussen, Head of Marketing at Chocolate Works

Thank you for your very kind words, I will make sure that our hardworking team of nurses, carers, hospitality and housekeeping staff are made aware of how happy you and your family are with your aunt's progress. Kind regards Sally Rasmussen

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Current Review Score: 9.5 (9.478)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.5 (9.478) out of 10 for Chocolate Works is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.5 out of 5 from 24 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 22 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

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

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

    The Average Rating of 4.478 for Chocolate Works is calculated as follows: ( (178 Excellents x 5) + (68 Goods x 4) + (21 Satisfactorys x 3) + (9 Poors x 2) + (2 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 278 Ratings = 4.478

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

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Chocolate Works is based on 22 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

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

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 102 registered maximum number of service users is 20.4, which has been reached with 22 Positive reviews. Points = 1

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

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

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

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

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Awards / Recognitions (95)

Meet the Team (1)

Judy

Judy Wray

Job Title: Home Manager

With over 36 years of experience in the healthcare sector, including 20 as a Registered Home Manager, I’m proud to lead the team at Chocolate Works care home. My background includes 27 years in administration, finance and business support, and I’ve been with Care UK for 14 years, most recently transferring internally from Ventress Hall.


I hold a QCF/SVQ Level 4 in Leadership and a Qualsafe Level 3 in Mental Health First Aid. I’m passionate about creating a safe, high-quality care environment, and I strive every day to support both residents and my team. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, most notably consolidating and enhancing care services, including expanding dementia care and delivering NHS-contracted intermediate care services.


I’m proud of the strong relationships I build with residents, families, staff and the wider community. I start every day greeting residents and staff, and I make time for regular walkabouts to stay present and involved. The heart of my role is ensuring safety, quality care and excellent leadership.


Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, especially my grandson, Chester. I enjoy travelling, making memories and raising funds for charity. In 2023, I completed a 15,000ft skydive, raising over £2,600 for St Teresa’s Hospice. Wing-walking is next!

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