Testimonials
Our testimonials have been received in the way of written letters or feedback cards by residents, relatives, staff and healthcare professionals. Some quotes were recorded by our CQC Inspector on our latest inspections and also from our internal Quality Assurance Survey. Letters and quotations have been anonymised for confidentiality purposes and original copies of the letters are held at The Old Vicarage. If you would like to leave us a review, please press the 'write a review' button below, we would love to hear from you.
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Sue [The Home Manager] is always bright and cheerful. She is always busy, dedicated and energetic.
If you have a problem she always gets it sorted and gives you an answer. Sue is very caring and kind. She will always listen to you.
[Do you feel safe when Sue is in charge?] Very safe (I sometimes wish that she could live here)!
Resident feedback about the Home Manager]
[Sue] is always so cheerful. Thank you and all the staff for your attention. You are wonderful. I’m sorry my writing is bad coming up for 100 years next month.
Resident feedback
"The care here is second to none."
Resident quoted in our CQC report
People were very happy with the food at the service. Comments included, "The food is excellent …the type of food we had at home", "Everything is homemade", "The quality and variety is good and it's fresh. They go around and serve the vegetables at the table"
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
"It's got a lot of good points…. but I think the most important thing is the staff; they are very caring, kind, whatever you ask of them they are very willing. There's a very nice atmosphere and that seems to permeate through all staff", "I get on with the staff and we have a laugh. I am perfectly happy" and "They will do anything you want them to do. They are always happy to do it. You are well looked after."
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
"I walk down to post a letter and I just let them know I am going, or go out with friends and whether you want your meal or not. It's just like your home."
Resident quoted in our CQC report
People's comments included, "I always like to say goodnight to somebody… They know I don't like somebody coming into the room in the night. I always say, 'if I need you I will ring' and they respect that."
Resident quoted in our CQC report
People's comments included, "We have communion once a month in one of the sitting rooms. They will take you to church if you want to go", "I am a Christian, but I don't go to church. They do have holy communion. I go to the Carol Service at the church in Otterton. They have two cars to take you.”
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
People talked to us with enthusiasm about the activities they had enjoyed. "I go to art and crafts, keep fit, active sport (exercises and games), two different sorts of quizzes, a harpist comes, and [name] runs an afternoon of classical music…This afternoon a man is coming to play the pianola and we sing songs. We do flower arranging for the home. We have entered things in the Otterton flower show", "They take us on outings. We went to the Pavilion in Exmouth for a cream tea, we went to Bicton Gardens" and "I know there are plenty of things going on…I go to the musical things, keep fit. I love going outside for a walk…It's easy to make friends here." One person told us, "On Sundays, before lunch, we have a sherry meeting and staff always come. We have photographs and talk about news events, and the dog comes."
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
People said they felt their views were listened to. Comments included, "We are asked our views." and "I have always been. We are able to discuss whatever we feel needs discussing and put our grumbles. Some time ago there was a little bit of grumble about the water jugs, and we very soon had a new set of water jugs. They changed the little milk pots to china because they pour better. We always get the minutes."
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
People and staff said the registered managers were approachable and listened. Comments included, "(Registered manager] works his socks off. There's not a single person I could possibly criticise", "They are all marvellous. They are very helpful", "Very easy to contact. You can always ask for them.”
Residents’ comments from our CQC report
“THANK YOU ALL. I did so appreciate the kindness and care so many of you showed to me and my friends on Friday. Some of you were not on duty but were equally helpful [in the preparations]. I hope you have happy days when it is your turn to have some celebration”
Resident letter.
"You would have to go a long way to find a care home as good as The Old Vicarage"
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
"You are wonderful in all you do"
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
"If you have to be in a home, it's a good place to be"
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
"I think the new enabling service will make quite a difference"
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
"I was very relieved to be looked after when I arrived, I was rather bruised after many falls and it was great not to feel responsible for anything! Thank you!"
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
"The staff are very good at sorting out any problem I have."
Resident comment in our annual Quality Assurance Survey
100% of responses in the Quality Assurance Survey said that they would recommend The Old Vicarage to others.
Annual Quality Assurance Survey
“I am extremely well looked after by very nice staff. It is a nice house and the food is good.”
Resident review on Carehome.co.uk
“I came here in April 2017 because many falls, followed by broken bones made it impossible to live on my own. I have been very comfortable and received good unobtrusive care. Cheerful staff and good food. Lovely garden and vegetable garden provides most of our vegetables. In the summer we are encouraged to be outside by having chairs and tables ready outside and willing staff to bring out tea and coffee when asked. Visitors always welcome and we can come and go as we please.”
Resident review on Carehome.co.uk
“The staff are extremely sociable and helpful. Food is tasteful and plentiful, the home is comfortable, sociable and manageable.” Resident review on Carehome.co.uk
“Thank you so much for the lovely party, we did enjoy everything.”
Resident letter.
“With many thanks for all you have smoothed out for me.”
Resident letter.
“Dear Pat, thank you so much for the beautiful roses! I am enjoying them.”
Resident letter.
"Everybody (staff) is excellent, I just ring the bell and someone is here, it is comforting, that is why you are here, I feel safe."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"Halcyon days (denoting a period of time in the past that was idyllically happy and peaceful) everything is wonderful, peaceful and lovely. They care with love here including (the providers), I have never bumped into one of the staff without a smile on their faces."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"Staff are very good, they look after me very well, I can't fault them in any way"
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"I don't think you could find anywhere better and they are so kind."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"Everything is wonderful, if you have to be in a home, no better place."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"I like to be very independent and they let me."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"They don't make you do things here you don't want to."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
"The owners are superb.": "The family (provider's and registered manager) are amazing, they never pull a face about anything they are so patient they always listen, remarkable people."
Resident quoted in CQC report.
“Thank you for making me so happy.”
Resident letter.
“I can’t thank you enough for giving me such a wonderful Christmas at home. I have never had my nuts cracked for me so it only gets better.”
Resident letter.
“Thank you for making my 87th birthday so special. With all your many tasks, so well done.”
Resident letter.
“Dear Dan, thank you for my new bed! And all the picture hanging, everybody has admired them.”
Resident letter.
“I want to thank you for giving us such a specially happy time and not finished yet! I am sorry I didn’t stay for Bingo! We had a particularly good game of Ludo, all ending up close to one another.”
Resident letter.
“Dear Pat, Mike, Rebecca and Dan and all your ‘little helpers’, thank you very much for the get together today, it was so enjoyable. My friends loved being here and they said they are looking forward to next year!”
Resident letter.
“As ever the decorations were superb and no one would have wanted for better or more carefully cooked and presented food. I really do thank you and your staff for providing us with what was a wonderful Christmas and New Year.”
Resident letter.
“I am fast learning to be fussed over – and I must say I rather like it! Such a lovely place to be in for Christmas. Thank you both for all you’ve done.”
Resident letter.
“The old idea that you would be pitied if you had no family to get ‘home’ to over Christmas is surely a myth! To dispel that, let them experience even just an hour or so inside ‘The Old Vicarage’ at this date and the warmth of the heart of this home is something wonderful! Certainly a happy place.”
Resident letter.
“I could not wish for a nicer place to be than the Old Vicarage. Thank you.”
Resident letter.
“Thank you for my Easter eggs and a very happy Easter. I still haven’t got over the lovely flowers in a vase on the breakfast tray. The flowers in the garden outside my window so beautiful and varied. P.S. please congratulate the chefs on the delicious food.”
Resident letter.
Dear Pat, This is by way of being a little ‘thank you’ note for yesterdays treat and all the trouble you went to, taking me in that wheelchair etc. I hardly think you had prepared yourself for all that uphill pushing and lifting so many plants at my whim!”
Resident letter.
“Thank you for a really happy harvest supper such a wonderful atmosphere starting with the service followed by the supper. My friends asked me to convey their thanks, especially for the apple pie and cream.”
Resident letter.
“What a splendid Christmas you both gave us, a lovely atmosphere altogether.”
Residents letter.
“I am very happy here and am very well looked after by all the staff.”
Resident letter.
“With many thanks for making the outing possible for me and the whole pleasure of the morning. It was LOVELY!”
Resident letter.
“So pleased your coffee morning went so well, the weather was perfect, my friends really enjoyed themselves. Loved the childrens dancing.”
Resident letter.
“Thank you all for making my past birthday so special. You have made me so welcome in every way. I have felt at home since my first day here, I cannot thank you enough.”
Resident letter.
I visited my Mum yesterday and just wanted to let you know how brilliant we thought the new visiting room is. It has been so thoughtfully designed and is very comfortable and well furnished . Conversation with my Mum was easy and we didn’t have to shout!
Please pass my thanks and best wishes to all those responsible for such an excellent and safe visiting area. We look forward to a repeat visit before Christmas!
Daughter of a Resident.
She [Home Manager, Sue] is clearly absolutely dedicated to The Old Vicarage and caring for the residents. I have always found her positive and smiley, and she seems to have risen well to the challenges of responsibilities that have been placed upon her.
I was particularly grateful to Sue when Mum was going through a bad time.
I found her open, willing to engage with my concerns and happy to call me whenever she felt there was something I would like to know.
Sue was the person mum felt most able to turn to when she had any particular worries or needs – I remember that she was very anxious over [personal] issues, she was happy to agree that Mum, Sue and I should have a get together to discuss and sort this, choosing Sue above anyone else.
Relative of resident.
“I wanted to write and express our huge gratitude to everyone at The Old Vicarage who made [Mum’s] stay such a comfortable one and for creating such a caring and compassionate environment.
I visited numerous care homes prior to choosing The Old Vicarage but the choice at the end of the day was an easy one. Not only did it have the best reputation but having visited it myself it simply reinforced what I already suspected.
Without exception everyone, whether experienced or otherwise, was professional, kind and considerate. Never once did I hear or see anything untoward. Given that such a working environment can at times be frustrating, I think it is testament to the professionalism and genuine commitment of all your staff.
[Mum] would regularly say to me that she couldn’t have been in a better place. We greatly appreciated the care she received throughout her stay and in those final few weeks. Her end of life care was just as it should be; warm, genuine, compassionate and of course with some humour.
Thank you to everyone at The Old Vicarage, we will be forever grateful.”
Son of resident.
“We think of mum often in her relatively short stay at the Vicarage but we feel so lucky that we found such a wonderful residency for her. Take care all of you.”
Family of resident.
“On behalf of all our family I would like to thank you for looking after mum. I know she really enjoyed her time with you all, having lots of fun times and laughter on the way.”
Daughter of resident.
"Dear Patricia, Michael, Rebecca and the team,
I have not really written to you and the team properly to thank you for the absolutely immaculate care that you gave to [name] while he lived with you. I am a nurse myself and know only too well how hard it is to give good care to the elderly, trying to balance a desire for quality care with the resources available.
From the moment he came into contact with you, he received such a warm and loving welcome. We were a little sceptical of his sudden decision to move into a ‘care home’ when he was so physically fit, but as soon as he moved it was clear that he had made absolutely the right decision.
Really his first months with you were more like a hotel stay. He kept his car, and went out to walk and paint, returning when he wished. The burden of cooking and cleaning was lifted, and he also loved sitting down with a cup of tea or coffee, with wonderful homemade biscuits and cakes. Above all it was the companionship and warmth which he found in the staff which enriched his life. Honestly we just could not fault your care. He was charmed from the start by the loving way in which he was treated. All staff, including managers, nurses, care assistants, cleaners and cooks (he adored Nigel) were just so nice to him.
As he became less well he relied on you increasingly for care, and you made that transition from minimal care to more intensive support so seamlessly. I often say to students: “It takes a lot of hard work under the surface to look this relaxed” – you know the old swan principle (paddling below the water whilst serene above water etc.) Well you guys just exemplify this: always ALWAYS when we visited everyone just seemed like they were really enjoying a relaxed day at work when we all know that you had lots of pressures, including a whole range of clients with different dependencies, and that is far from easy.
We just cannot thank you enough for the wonderful care you gave to him. At his funeral (so thoughtfully attended by several staff members) I recounted the time I had said to him “The staff here are like family”. He had replied. “They are more than family”. He did not mean this to be upsetting to his family and we took no offence because we could see what he was trying to say.
Truly you have made a home in every sense of the word. I have read your leaflet which describes the philosophy of your care. Well I have worked for many organisations and I know how easy it is to trot out one of those mission statements, then fail to live up to the promise. You have more than lived up to yours.
Once again all I can say is thank you, thank you, thank you.
I wish you well in your wonderful work. My abiding wish is that if any of you ever need care when you too are elderly, then you are able to receive the kind of care you have given to your clients. You deserve it.
Bless you all! You are angels!”
Letter written by relative.
“My mother went to The Old Vicarage in December 2013 and I have nothing but praise for the way she has been cared for since. The staff all of them past and present have been caring, professional, attentive, friendly and supportive to my mother. I would highly recommend The Old Vicarage. It is so comfortable for the residents and the small number of residents creates a very reassuring and relaxed atmosphere.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“A delightful well-run home. Staff are efficient, courteous and have a good rapport with the residents.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“From the day my mother moved in, in 2011, she has received excellent care throughout. All the staff are very caring and treat her with dignity and respect at all times. The home has a lovely atmosphere always warm and welcoming to family and friends.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“Thank you so much for looking after [name] over the last weeks. Her friends and I could not have wished for a better place for her to be cared for, and to end her days. You attended her with professionalism, sensitivity, respect , humour and love. Visiting [name] always felt like visiting a big family, of which she became a part. You worked seamlessly with Hospiscare and the local NHS to provide a total care package. All this contributed to us knowing that, when she eventually passed away, she had the best possible care. So thanks to all the staff – you have been wonderful!”.
Friend of resident.
“You have all been so wonderful during my Mother’s stay with you. All the generous time & patience you have shown has been so appreciated & made the transition from home so painless.”
Relative of resident.
“With special thanks to [staff names] and all those who worked so hard above and beyond the call of duty.”
Relative of resident.
“In gratitude for all you have done… your dedication, loving care”
Relative of resident.
“Your care was above and beyond your duty and you did everything you could to make her comfortable and free from pain. THANK YOU for looking after her so tenderly, for your professional care and understanding, for all your concern, help and love for us as well as mum.”
Relative of resident.
“I wanted to write and thank you for everything you did for my mother during the years she spent at The Old Vicarage. When we decided that she needed to move into a residential home we found it a very difficult decision and we were concerned that she might not be happy. However we need not have worried. The care and love that you gave her was second to none and we came to look upon the Old Vicarage as her home and all of you as part of the family.”
Relative of resident.
“We would particularly like to thank [her enabler] for her kindness, friendship and humour. We know how much she enjoyed her company and their trips out together.”
Relative of resident.
“It was a great comfort to us to know that she was so well looked after and that she was able to spend her last years in such a happy, loving home.”
Relative of resident.
“We miss you all and our visits to The Old Vicarage. Words will not fully express our gratitude and we will not forget you all and the wonderful welcoming and cheerful atmosphere of The Old Vicarage.”
Relative of resident.
“So only now have I got time to write to you all and say how very, very grateful we are for the wonderful love and care that you gave mum during her 6 years at The Old Vicarage. You really have become family and it was always a pleasure to come and see mum and to see all of you too. There is such a happy atmosphere at The Old Vicarage and you all went the extra mile to ensure that mum was well looked after.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you for all your help, care, kindness and love for mum and us.”
Relatives of resident.
“The care she received with you was second to none and all of you made the effort to get to know Mum as a person and not just as a ‘resident’.”
Relative of resident.
“I often used to hear happy laughter coming from her room and the warmth and affection with which you looked after her made life so much easier for us, knowing she was safe in your care.”
Relative of resident.
The Old Vicarage is in a league of its own and for that you should all be very proud”
Relative of resident.
“She gained the same kind of dedication from both medical and nursing care in The Old Vicarage. She received their unwavering affection, emotional care and reassurance from a deeply devoted staff”.
Friend of resident.
“A heart-felt thank you to you all for your warm, caring support of [Dad] over the past five years. We are certain that the O.V. team are the most professional, cheerful and patient carers on the planet. We are also grateful for your warm welcomes and lovely smiles when [we] visisted.”
Relative of resident.
“Just to say thank you and all of your staff very much for looking after my cousin [..] so well for the past two years and particularly during recent weeks. He always spoke so highly of you and could hardly believe his good fortune in coming to The Old Vicarage.”
Relative of resident.
“We would like you to know that all the family are so grateful for the excellent care Dad received during his time at The Old Vicarage and especially in the last few weeks. He absolutely loved living at The Old Vicarage and it is a comfort to all of us to know that his last years were such happy ones. He was always full of praise for all the staff and their cheerfulness and the excellent care he received. Thank you.”
Relative of resident.
“A heartfelt THANK YOU for the outstanding care and exceptional consideration given to my cousin during her years of residence with you. I was thankful that she was able to share the comfort of your lovely home (& garden) for so long.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you to all the staff at The Old Vicarage for the friendship and care they showed to our late mother. The Old Vicarage is an exceptional place and we now know why it had always been where Mother had wished to move to, once she was no longer able to cope on her own. The warmth of the reception when she returned from hospital encapsulates all that is so good about The Old Vicarage. May I also add a thank you for the friendship and professionalism all your staff have shown to us ourselves.”
Relative of resident, 2017.
“We would like to thank you all very much for the wonderful care you have given [Name] over the past three years. We fully appreciate the lengths you have gone to to support and love her as her problems increased.”
Relative of resident.
"It is absolutely fantastic here, they are so supportive, incredibly kind and thoughtful and well trained. My (relative) now needs another level of care as she is bedbound; they keep me well informed about everything. If I raise things they are brilliant at listening. (Relative) has difficulty seeing, they communicate really well with her they do things with the minimum of fuss and always speak with her. We come at all different times they let us be with her, offer us food, we feel we are in an incredibly well organised place."
Relative quoted in CQC report.
“I and the family are still talking about the way you cared for [name] especially during the last month of his life. That in no way downplays the attention he received on a daily basis since he came to you. To witness the care and attention during the final week that I was with him was touching in the extreme and it means much to us all that his last weeks were so comfortable and peaceful.” Relative of resident, 2015.
“Thank you for all the wonderful care you gave my mum during the last weeks of her life. The warmth and devotion of everyone, ensuring the best possible care and comfort for her was of great consolation to me during a very difficult time.”
Relative of resident.
“The Old Vicarage will always have a special place in our hearts.” Relative of resident, 2017.
“Many, many thanks for your care over the past few challenging months. [name] and [name] couldn’t have been in better hands and your patience and thoughtfulness has been immeasurable. We are so grateful for all your kindness.”
Relative of residents.
“I cannot express my thanks for all that the staff did for her on her birthday, they were just so spoiling. The care generally that you are all giving my mother is second to none and such a relief for me.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you all so much for everything you did to make Mum’s 100th such as success. I’m not sure where to start with our thanks as you were all so super. You were all fantastic and gave mum and all the family a day we will remember and treasure forever. When we have our 100ths we are definitely celebrating them at The Old Vicarage!”
Relative of resident.
“Words could never be enough to thank you all for the amazing, loving care and support that you have given [name] over the past 71/2 years, not to mention the welcome and friendship you have extended to us whenever we visit the Old Vicarage. You achieved what I always thought was the impossible, you made [name] happy! She loved you all as her family & often told me how happy she was & how lucky she was to be staying in such a wonderful home. I know she wasn’t easy at first & I am just so grateful that you gave her a chance to settle in her own time & to come to terms with the fact that she needed help. It was not easy for someone who had always been so fiercely independent & so in control! I always remember being asked when we first arrived if [name] had any special dietry needs. I said no but she was fussy “oh, we do fussy” was the answer & how right that was. She was spoiled rotten from day one and nothing was ever too much trouble. Whatever the task you have always looked after [name] with such cheerful good humour & loving care. So thank you all again for everything. We shall miss you all, not to mention the endless trays of tea & coffee & delicious homemade cakes and biscuits!”
Relative of resident.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to you and all your staff for the way you cared for my mother: it was exemplary.”
Relative of resident.
“We want to say a huge thank you for the kindness and fabulous care mum received during her stay at The Old Vicarage. We were so lucky that you had a space when we needed it most! Mum had a happy and contented summer with you and enjoyed the wonderful garden and the company of staff and residents.”
Relative of resident.
Please pass my thanks and best wishes to all those responsible for such an excellent and safe visiting area. We look forward to a repeat visit before Christmas!
Daughter of a Resident.
She [Home Manager, Sue] is clearly absolutely dedicated to The Old Vicarage and caring for the residents. I have always found her positive and smiley, and she seems to have risen well to the challenges of responsibilities that have been placed upon her.
I was particularly grateful to Sue when Mum was going through a bad time.
I found her open, willing to engage with my concerns and happy to call me whenever she felt there was something I would like to know.
Sue was the person mum felt most able to turn to when she had any particular worries or needs – I remember that she was very anxious over [personal] issues, she was happy to agree that Mum, Sue and I should have a get together to discuss and sort this, choosing Sue above anyone else.
Relative of resident.
“I wanted to write and express our huge gratitude to everyone at The Old Vicarage who made [Mum’s] stay such a comfortable one and for creating such a caring and compassionate environment.
I visited numerous care homes prior to choosing The Old Vicarage but the choice at the end of the day was an easy one. Not only did it have the best reputation but having visited it myself it simply reinforced what I already suspected.
Without exception everyone, whether experienced or otherwise, was professional, kind and considerate. Never once did I hear or see anything untoward. Given that such a working environment can at times be frustrating, I think it is testament to the professionalism and genuine commitment of all your staff.
[Mum] would regularly say to me that she couldn’t have been in a better place. We greatly appreciated the care she received throughout her stay and in those final few weeks. Her end of life care was just as it should be; warm, genuine, compassionate and of course with some humour.
Thank you to everyone at The Old Vicarage, we will be forever grateful.”
Son of resident.
“We think of mum often in her relatively short stay at the Vicarage but we feel so lucky that we found such a wonderful residency for her. Take care all of you.”
Family of resident.
“On behalf of all our family I would like to thank you for looking after mum. I know she really enjoyed her time with you all, having lots of fun times and laughter on the way.”
Daughter of resident.
"Dear Patricia, Michael, Rebecca and the team,
I have not really written to you and the team properly to thank you for the absolutely immaculate care that you gave to [name] while he lived with you. I am a nurse myself and know only too well how hard it is to give good care to the elderly, trying to balance a desire for quality care with the resources available.
From the moment he came into contact with you, he received such a warm and loving welcome. We were a little sceptical of his sudden decision to move into a ‘care home’ when he was so physically fit, but as soon as he moved it was clear that he had made absolutely the right decision.
Really his first months with you were more like a hotel stay. He kept his car, and went out to walk and paint, returning when he wished. The burden of cooking and cleaning was lifted, and he also loved sitting down with a cup of tea or coffee, with wonderful homemade biscuits and cakes. Above all it was the companionship and warmth which he found in the staff which enriched his life. Honestly we just could not fault your care. He was charmed from the start by the loving way in which he was treated. All staff, including managers, nurses, care assistants, cleaners and cooks (he adored Nigel) were just so nice to him.
As he became less well he relied on you increasingly for care, and you made that transition from minimal care to more intensive support so seamlessly. I often say to students: “It takes a lot of hard work under the surface to look this relaxed” – you know the old swan principle (paddling below the water whilst serene above water etc.) Well you guys just exemplify this: always ALWAYS when we visited everyone just seemed like they were really enjoying a relaxed day at work when we all know that you had lots of pressures, including a whole range of clients with different dependencies, and that is far from easy.
We just cannot thank you enough for the wonderful care you gave to him. At his funeral (so thoughtfully attended by several staff members) I recounted the time I had said to him “The staff here are like family”. He had replied. “They are more than family”. He did not mean this to be upsetting to his family and we took no offence because we could see what he was trying to say.
Truly you have made a home in every sense of the word. I have read your leaflet which describes the philosophy of your care. Well I have worked for many organisations and I know how easy it is to trot out one of those mission statements, then fail to live up to the promise. You have more than lived up to yours.
Once again all I can say is thank you, thank you, thank you.
I wish you well in your wonderful work. My abiding wish is that if any of you ever need care when you too are elderly, then you are able to receive the kind of care you have given to your clients. You deserve it.
Bless you all! You are angels!”
Letter written by relative.
“My mother went to The Old Vicarage in December 2013 and I have nothing but praise for the way she has been cared for since. The staff all of them past and present have been caring, professional, attentive, friendly and supportive to my mother. I would highly recommend The Old Vicarage. It is so comfortable for the residents and the small number of residents creates a very reassuring and relaxed atmosphere.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“A delightful well-run home. Staff are efficient, courteous and have a good rapport with the residents.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“From the day my mother moved in, in 2011, she has received excellent care throughout. All the staff are very caring and treat her with dignity and respect at all times. The home has a lovely atmosphere always warm and welcoming to family and friends.”
Relative review on Carehome.co.uk
“Thank you so much for looking after [name] over the last weeks. Her friends and I could not have wished for a better place for her to be cared for, and to end her days. You attended her with professionalism, sensitivity, respect , humour and love. Visiting [name] always felt like visiting a big family, of which she became a part. You worked seamlessly with Hospiscare and the local NHS to provide a total care package. All this contributed to us knowing that, when she eventually passed away, she had the best possible care. So thanks to all the staff – you have been wonderful!”.
Friend of resident.
“You have all been so wonderful during my Mother’s stay with you. All the generous time & patience you have shown has been so appreciated & made the transition from home so painless.”
Relative of resident.
“With special thanks to [staff names] and all those who worked so hard above and beyond the call of duty.”
Relative of resident.
“In gratitude for all you have done… your dedication, loving care”
Relative of resident.
“Your care was above and beyond your duty and you did everything you could to make her comfortable and free from pain. THANK YOU for looking after her so tenderly, for your professional care and understanding, for all your concern, help and love for us as well as mum.”
Relative of resident.
“I wanted to write and thank you for everything you did for my mother during the years she spent at The Old Vicarage. When we decided that she needed to move into a residential home we found it a very difficult decision and we were concerned that she might not be happy. However we need not have worried. The care and love that you gave her was second to none and we came to look upon the Old Vicarage as her home and all of you as part of the family.”
Relative of resident.
“We would particularly like to thank [her enabler] for her kindness, friendship and humour. We know how much she enjoyed her company and their trips out together.”
Relative of resident.
“It was a great comfort to us to know that she was so well looked after and that she was able to spend her last years in such a happy, loving home.”
Relative of resident.
“We miss you all and our visits to The Old Vicarage. Words will not fully express our gratitude and we will not forget you all and the wonderful welcoming and cheerful atmosphere of The Old Vicarage.”
Relative of resident.
“So only now have I got time to write to you all and say how very, very grateful we are for the wonderful love and care that you gave mum during her 6 years at The Old Vicarage. You really have become family and it was always a pleasure to come and see mum and to see all of you too. There is such a happy atmosphere at The Old Vicarage and you all went the extra mile to ensure that mum was well looked after.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you for all your help, care, kindness and love for mum and us.”
Relatives of resident.
“The care she received with you was second to none and all of you made the effort to get to know Mum as a person and not just as a ‘resident’.”
Relative of resident.
“I often used to hear happy laughter coming from her room and the warmth and affection with which you looked after her made life so much easier for us, knowing she was safe in your care.”
Relative of resident.
The Old Vicarage is in a league of its own and for that you should all be very proud”
Relative of resident.
“She gained the same kind of dedication from both medical and nursing care in The Old Vicarage. She received their unwavering affection, emotional care and reassurance from a deeply devoted staff”.
Friend of resident.
“A heart-felt thank you to you all for your warm, caring support of [Dad] over the past five years. We are certain that the O.V. team are the most professional, cheerful and patient carers on the planet. We are also grateful for your warm welcomes and lovely smiles when [we] visisted.”
Relative of resident.
“Just to say thank you and all of your staff very much for looking after my cousin [..] so well for the past two years and particularly during recent weeks. He always spoke so highly of you and could hardly believe his good fortune in coming to The Old Vicarage.”
Relative of resident.
“We would like you to know that all the family are so grateful for the excellent care Dad received during his time at The Old Vicarage and especially in the last few weeks. He absolutely loved living at The Old Vicarage and it is a comfort to all of us to know that his last years were such happy ones. He was always full of praise for all the staff and their cheerfulness and the excellent care he received. Thank you.”
Relative of resident.
“A heartfelt THANK YOU for the outstanding care and exceptional consideration given to my cousin during her years of residence with you. I was thankful that she was able to share the comfort of your lovely home (& garden) for so long.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you to all the staff at The Old Vicarage for the friendship and care they showed to our late mother. The Old Vicarage is an exceptional place and we now know why it had always been where Mother had wished to move to, once she was no longer able to cope on her own. The warmth of the reception when she returned from hospital encapsulates all that is so good about The Old Vicarage. May I also add a thank you for the friendship and professionalism all your staff have shown to us ourselves.”
Relative of resident, 2017.
“We would like to thank you all very much for the wonderful care you have given [Name] over the past three years. We fully appreciate the lengths you have gone to to support and love her as her problems increased.”
Relative of resident.
"It is absolutely fantastic here, they are so supportive, incredibly kind and thoughtful and well trained. My (relative) now needs another level of care as she is bedbound; they keep me well informed about everything. If I raise things they are brilliant at listening. (Relative) has difficulty seeing, they communicate really well with her they do things with the minimum of fuss and always speak with her. We come at all different times they let us be with her, offer us food, we feel we are in an incredibly well organised place."
Relative quoted in CQC report.
“I and the family are still talking about the way you cared for [name] especially during the last month of his life. That in no way downplays the attention he received on a daily basis since he came to you. To witness the care and attention during the final week that I was with him was touching in the extreme and it means much to us all that his last weeks were so comfortable and peaceful.” Relative of resident, 2015.
“Thank you for all the wonderful care you gave my mum during the last weeks of her life. The warmth and devotion of everyone, ensuring the best possible care and comfort for her was of great consolation to me during a very difficult time.”
Relative of resident.
“The Old Vicarage will always have a special place in our hearts.” Relative of resident, 2017.
“Many, many thanks for your care over the past few challenging months. [name] and [name] couldn’t have been in better hands and your patience and thoughtfulness has been immeasurable. We are so grateful for all your kindness.”
Relative of residents.
“I cannot express my thanks for all that the staff did for her on her birthday, they were just so spoiling. The care generally that you are all giving my mother is second to none and such a relief for me.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you all so much for everything you did to make Mum’s 100th such as success. I’m not sure where to start with our thanks as you were all so super. You were all fantastic and gave mum and all the family a day we will remember and treasure forever. When we have our 100ths we are definitely celebrating them at The Old Vicarage!”
Relative of resident.
“Words could never be enough to thank you all for the amazing, loving care and support that you have given [name] over the past 71/2 years, not to mention the welcome and friendship you have extended to us whenever we visit the Old Vicarage. You achieved what I always thought was the impossible, you made [name] happy! She loved you all as her family & often told me how happy she was & how lucky she was to be staying in such a wonderful home. I know she wasn’t easy at first & I am just so grateful that you gave her a chance to settle in her own time & to come to terms with the fact that she needed help. It was not easy for someone who had always been so fiercely independent & so in control! I always remember being asked when we first arrived if [name] had any special dietry needs. I said no but she was fussy “oh, we do fussy” was the answer & how right that was. She was spoiled rotten from day one and nothing was ever too much trouble. Whatever the task you have always looked after [name] with such cheerful good humour & loving care. So thank you all again for everything. We shall miss you all, not to mention the endless trays of tea & coffee & delicious homemade cakes and biscuits!”
Relative of resident.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to you and all your staff for the way you cared for my mother: it was exemplary.”
Relative of resident.
“We want to say a huge thank you for the kindness and fabulous care mum received during her stay at The Old Vicarage. We were so lucky that you had a space when we needed it most! Mum had a happy and contented summer with you and enjoyed the wonderful garden and the company of staff and residents.”
Relative of resident.
“Thank you and all your kindly staff for making her visits to The Old Vicarage so relaxed and enjoyable. You run a super care home and I can think of nothing nicer than spending my final days in your care – whenever that might be. With our profound thanks and best wishes to all your staff.”
Husband of short-stay resident.
“Hugely grateful thanks from [name] but also her family, for the wonderful care afforded to her during her respite breaks at The Old Vicarage!
She has mentioned to me countless times how much she thinks of the staff for their genuinely caring approach and kindness. Very many thanks indeed to the staff!”
Son of short-stay resident.
"I have been treated as though I am the only one. Really special"
Short stay resident.
“To all the staff at The Old Vicarage, Many, many thanks for your kindness and attentive care during my stay. It has all been very much appreciated.”
Short stay resident.
“Huge thanks for looking after my mum so beautifully. We both really appreciate all your care and compassion.”
Relative of short stay resident.
“The few peaceful days I spent at The Old Vicarage with such delicious food has certainly contributed to getting better faster.”
Short stay resident.
“I was impressed, if not amazed at the wonderful treatment I received from your staff. There was no-one special, they were all especially helpful. I’m afraid that in my short stay, I couldn’t retain individual names but I would ask you to thank them all on my behalf. I am very grateful to them.”
Short stay resident.
“To all the staff. A big thank you for all your help and kindness during my short stay.”
Short stay resident.
“Thank you all so much for looking after [name] so well. He had a very enjoyable time and it was good for me to know that he was well and happy while I was away.”
Relative of short stay resident.
“All the staff are delightful – friendly, helpful & professional at all times. Nothing is too much trouble. I shall be sad to leave as it has been a really relaxing stay with plenty of pampering. I can’t remember all the names but the staff deserve a pat on the back.”
Short stay resident.
“Thank you for your help and kindness. You are all so lovely.” Short stay resident.
“Thank you and your colleagues for the care and unfailing courtesy she experienced during her recent stay at The Old Vicarage. In passing, the hospitality afforded to her visitors was greatly apprieciated.”
Relative of short stay resident.
“Thank you so much for making what could be a very difficult time for all of us, so much easier! It is wonderful to be able to relax knowing that mum, who is so fussy, is being cared for so well and in such perfect surroundings. I’ve told her the Queen wouldn’t be treated any better!”
Relative of short stay resident.
“Thank you for the very helpful time which I spent recently at your delightful home. It has enabled me to spend a little more time in my own home, but also to appreciate the comfort and facilities you make available at The Old Vicarage, alongside such wonderful staff”
Short stay resident.
A visiting chiropodist said, "I have always found their approach to resident care and wellbeing to be of the highest standard. Nothing is too much trouble."
Healthcare professional quoted in our CQC report.
“Thanks as well for the care and attention for all our patients which has been great as always.”
Budleigh Salterton GP.
“You worked seamlessly with Hospiscare and the local NHS to provide a total care package. All this contributed to us knowing that, when she eventually passed away, she had the best possible care.”
Friend of resident.
“Thank you, all of you, for the delicious Harvest Supper on Wednesday last. It was a joy to be there and to see the beautiful harvest festival decorations of fruits, veg and produce. Thank you so much.”
Local Vicar.
"I have always found my patients really well cared for in a very empathetic and caring manner."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report.
"We have an excellent relationship with the staff. I can't think of a single negative regarding its management and the care provided to its residents. The respect for the residents is of the highest standard and they are treated with dignity at all times."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report.
A GP told us, "They do provide personal centred care, they support individuals in activities of their choice and they support people to raise concerns and complaints."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"The staff are very experienced and caring. They seem very sympathetic to individual resident's needs."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"The staff are extremely caring and supportive at all times. Dignity is prioritised and their opinion sought wherever possible."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"They involve people in decision making where possible and they do respect individual's dignity and privacy." Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"The staff work very well with the health centre and endeavour to make things as efficient as possible, while retaining a very good standard of care."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"The care is very patient-centred and we are contacted appropriately when patients need a medical review. I have no concerns regarding the training and knowledge of the staff."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"Yes, they are responsive to patient needs, and will contact us if they feel they and/or the patient needs additional help/skills/knowledge."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"The staff are well trained and there are enough to look after residents properly."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"My feeling is that the home is well led and organised."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"It is well run and it's residents are very well cared for."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
"I believe there is clear leadership. There are suitable checks and audits in place to identify how to improve and they work well in partnership with us."
Healthcare professional quoted in CQC report
“Outstanding preparation of patient by nursing / care team. Excellent handover and paperwork ready to go. A level above the rest. Very impressed!”
Sidmouth Ambulance crew.
She is always putting the residents first. She works hard and she is always enthusiastic. All the staff like her and we all want to support her because she is friendly and helpful.
She is always thinking about everybody else. She is just what we need right now.
Staff member feedback about the Home Manager
[Home Manager Sue] understands the ethos and philosophy of The Old Vicarage. Always puts the residents and their needs above all else. Very kind, committed and reliable. Is respected by staff and residents. Goes above and beyond much of the time. Very caring and compassionate. I am very happy to be part of her team as she has always supported me fully in the fourteen years I have known her. I’m sure she will lead the Old Vicarage along the right path to a bright future.
Staff member feedback about the Home Manager
"I couldn't wish for better employers."
Staff member quoted in our CQC report
Staff all said there was a family atmosphere at the service in relation to people, their families and the staff team. Comments included, "Home from home, our family…safe environment, we provide everything you could wish for, it is their home", "Everything is here for them, 100% looked after, we keep them safe, food is top quality. Families can go away without worrying they know they are well looked after"
Staff members comments from our CQC report
"Everybody is so friendly, happy, helps each other out, like a big family, can mix easily never an atmosphere here."
Staff member quoted in our CQC report
“With love and thanks to you all for the kindness and support you have given me over the years and helping in looking after our dear residents and making their lives good and fulfilled”
Retiring staff member
"It's not like any other care home I have worked in, it's a mixture between a family home with the standards of a hotel, like one big family living together."
Staff member quoted in CQC Report
"The residents are the main focus of everything here, everything is done to make their lives fulfilled and keep standards up. I would definitely be happy for any of these girls to look after my mum."
Staff member quoted in CQC Report
A staff member said, "I would be happy for my mother to be cared for here because she would be safe, loved and cared for."
Staff member quoted in CQC Report
“Thanks for the opportunity of working at The Old Vicarage. You have it just right and it’s a credit to you. I’m sure I shall book a room one day.”
Retiring staff member
“I feel very blessed to have been a part of such a special place.”
Staff member
“Just wanted to say thank you for this opportunity, it has been a privilege to work at such a lovely home 😊”
Staff member
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work in such a lovely environment. I have enjoyed every day.”
Staff member
“Thank you for all your great professionalism, care and warmth of friendship. The residents too, certainly know how lucky they are to have you all caring for them.”
Retiring staff member
“I have appreciated your support in all aspects of my work at The Old Vicarage – long may you thrive and continue with the excellent care and attention.”
Retiring staff member
“I cannot express enough how much I have enjoyed working with everyone – the team work and the residents and I have always felt supported and appreciated by you all. Thank you.”
Retiring member of staff
“I’m so lucky to work with such lovely people in such a lovely home.”
Staff member