Blackthorns

21/29 Dooley Road, Halstead CO9 1JW
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9.7 81 Reviews
  • Blackthorns, Halstead
Blackthorns is a newly refurbished, 58 bedroom, residential care home in Halstead, north Essex. This spacious home provides expert care for older people, including those living with dementia. All of the bedrooms are beautifully furnished, with 22 benefitting from en-suite bathroom facilities and there is also a dedicated area for dementia care, designed to enable those they care for to maintain their independence in a safe environment.

Facilities available for the enjoyment of residents include a café, comfortable and sociable dining, several beautiful lounges, a hairdressing salon, corridor snugs and several courtyard garden areas.

The professional, compassionate and highly-trained care team strives to create a varied and enjoyable environment at Blackthorns, and listen carefully to what residents would like to do to make the day pleasurable and memorable. They take great pride in their activities. The activities programme ensures that residents remain stimulated and engaged, taking into account hobbies, needs and interests, to include and entertain everyone. Wifi is also available on site.

At Blackthorns, their aim is to practise ‘person-centred’ care for all residents, and trained staff are available 24 hours a day to meet residents' needs. They understand the value of individuality, so residents will be able to personalise their accommodation.

A nutritious menu of food is provided in consultation with residents and their families to ensure that any special requests and diets can be met.

This beautiful care home can be visited at any time, and assessments can be carried out in people's own homes if desired.

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Care Provided by Blackthorns

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 62 Service Users
  • Privately Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • End of Life Care
  • Palliative Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Flavia Poplauschi (Home Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Admission is confirmed upon a satisfactory pre-admission assessment and confirmation that the needs of the potential resident can be met.
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (56)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (3)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (1)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Last Refurbishment: 2020
    • Number of floors: 1

Funding & Fees Guide for Blackthorns

  • Funding Types Accepted
  • Self funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top-Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding
  • Weekly Charges per Person
    • Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,300
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,300
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,450
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,450
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Blackthorns to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Bar/Café
  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting

  • Upon arriving at the home, please press the buzzer on the intercom. A member of staff will greet you shortly. The home kindly request that you sign the guestbook upon both arrival and departure. This helps maintain an accurate record of who is in the building.
    In the event of an emergency, please follow the designated safety protocols provided. Your cooperation ensures everyone's safety.


  • Parking

  • The home includes dedicated parking spaces.


Blackthorns Reviews (81)

Total of 81, showing 1-20
9.7

Blackthorns has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.683) out of 10, based on 22 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Blackthorns has 81 reviews.

Overall Experience

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  • 26
  • 4
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Date Published

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Review from Mandy H (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father unfortunately broke his left femur back in November.Dad is 90 years old and has always been fit and healthy but after his fall he has become very frail although mentally he still can hold a conversation.Dad was moved to Blackthorns after the hospital discharged him.Although only temporary
it became clear he needed 24 hour care as he lives on his own , so Blackthorns have been a life line.Dad has settled in very well.The management and staff are beyond exceptional and are very supportive to dad and his family and friends.They are always smiling and we are particularly fond of one member of staff, in particular, who is an asset to the team of excellent carers who makes us giggle when she is around.I would recommend Blackthorns to anyone who is looking for a suitable care home.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Good afternoon, Thank you very much for your lovely review, your lovely feedback will be shared with the team


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Review from Laura P (Wife of Resident) published on 22 January 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very satisfied with the way the home is run. All the staff are very helpful and the home is very clean.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you for your review, this will be shared with the team.


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Review from Stephen C (Brother of Resident) published on 10 December 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My sister was in very poor health when we moved her from hospital to Blackthorns. She then became more comfortable and for a while, gained strength. Alas, her health began to deteriorate and she refused solid food despite various options being offered. We felt that the care and attention given was excellent
during this time.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you for the review, this will be shared with the team.


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Review from S C (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 10 October 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Thank you for the care and compassion shown to my mother-in-law this month whilst she was in your care. You all made her time comfortable and enjoyable and we will be forever grateful.
The support you provided to us, as a family, was fantastic right up to her passing in hospital. Thank you.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your lovely review. I will be sharing it with the team.


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Review from Lisa C (Daughter of Resident) published on 4 October 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The care my father has received generally, on the whole, has been good. When I have had concerns, I have been able to speak to staff and most are addressed at the time occasionally have had to make repeat requests for information but nothing is perfect. Most staff are approachable and there are a couple
who go above and beyond. Sometimes feel more could be done so more people are included in activities and trips.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you for your review. This will be shared with the team.


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Review from Shaun R (Son of Resident) published on 3 October 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother came to stay here for two weeks for short stay. We are very pleased to see my mother happy and well when we came to pick her up, no concerns.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your review. I will be sharing this with the team!


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Review from Angela O (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 17 September 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

It is an emotional time when there is a heart breaking decision that needs to be made with reference to a loved one and taking the step of moving them into a care home.
Blackthorns can't be praised enough for making this transition as comfortable as possible. From day one, my grandmother was made
to feel welcome and her living quarters were carefully considered to make sure she was surround by people that have now become her friends. It is definitely a caring, supportive environment and her situation is so much better than when she was in her own home.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you for your lovely review, this will be shared with our team!


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Review from Carolyn R (Relative of Resident) published on 31 July 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The staff looking after my relative are very kind to him. The food is good and generous. Very clean. Whenever I ask for anything, e.g. a blanket, the staff are helpful.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you for your feedback, it will be shared with the team.


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Review from Susan H (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 July 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very pleased with the care that my dad is given. The staff are lovely and the food if good. I am able to take him to the tea room for lunch which we enjoy. Thank you.
Kind regards.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your review. This will be shared with the team!


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Review from D R (Wife of Resident) published on 4 June 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Overall care was good but I felt the staff had so much to do and were not able to be available as often as liked. The meals were nicely presented and plentiful but in the case of my husband who is a strong able man felt the hot dinners were very small. Blackthorns is a light and airy home and the decor
is outstanding. A lovely place. A special thanks to the maintenance man who looked out for my husband, a gem.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback, this will be shared with the team!


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Review from F A (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 9 April 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Blackthorns have been excellent, caring, considerate and respectful of my father-in-law. Couldn't be better.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback, I will share it with the team!


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Review from T G (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 April 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been in Blackthorns for over a year now. She is 93 and needs considerable support in her day-to-day life. The staff are caring; she received the help and assistance she needs and is happy and contented. I am pleased with her care, and the staff are very competent and caring.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback; we will share it with the team!


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Review from Graham F (Son of Resident) published on 15 February 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My parents have had a caring, supportive experience.
Their life has been difficult but Blackthorns has done all they can to help them live their last days with dignity and respect. In particular, the manager has been wonderful.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback. I will share it with the team!


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Review from M W (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad has been a resident for only a short while, it was a heartbreaking decision for our family, however, Blackthorns offers so many home comforts, we can visit at any time. All the team are so welcoming and helpful and as a family, we take great comfort in knowing Dad is being very well looked after
and importantly, he’s in a safe and caring environment.
When we visit, we’re always greeted with a smile, we’re kept well informed should there be any concerns. I honestly can’t thank everyone for the amazing jobs they do, thank you.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for the lovely review you have given! I will be sharing your feedback with the team.


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Review from A H (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father was there from October to January 2024. The care was outstanding, and his dignity was considered at all times - I cannot fault anything. All the staff were friendly, kind, polite, caring and considerate of my father and his family.
I would recommend Blackthorns highly. Thank you isn't enough
to say, as they were brilliant. Thank you.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback; I will share it with the team!


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Review from G P (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 January 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The care Dad received was very good.
Plenty of good carers.
Always kept me informed of anything that happened.
I would visit him every day.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your feedback; I will share it with the team!


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Review from Ian P (Son of Resident) published on 21 December 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been in the home since April 2023, the care and attention she has received has been outstanding.
The home is well-managed by the management team, the administrator is a massive part of this team.
The carers, the domestics, the cooks and entertainment have been brilliant.
Thank you
to them all.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your review, I will be sharing it with the team.


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Review from D J (Son of Resident) published on 11 December 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother is well looked after and I'm very grateful to all the members of staff.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for your positive feedback, I will share this with the team!


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Review from J A (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 December 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Delighted with the care and attention my father has received since his arrival. All the staff are very friendly and kind and have helped him to feel at home.

Reply from Flavia Poplauschi, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Thank you so much for the lovely review you have given to us.


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Review from Karen M (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are very pleased with the way the home has settled my dad in after a rocky start. He has received excellent care and the staff and manager have gone above and beyond to make him feel at home. The residents get to go out on trips
which is lovely and so good for them. We would highly recommend this
home.

Reply from Fiona Kemp, Home Manager at Blackthorns

Hi,
Thank you so much for the lovely review.


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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.683)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.683) out of 10 for Blackthorns is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 22 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 4.683 for Blackthorns is calculated as follows: ( (190 Excellents x 5) + (57 Goods x 4) + (11 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 259 Ratings = 4.683

  • 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 Blackthorns 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 62 registered maximum number of service users is 12.4, 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.

Performance

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 10 Mar 2023

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Good

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

View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (0)

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Meet the Team (5)

Flavia

Flavia Poplauschi

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2012

I am Flavia Poplauschi, a dedicated Home Manager with over 12 years of experience in the health and social care sector. What excites me the most about my role are the growth and learning opportunities it offers. I hold an NVQ Level 5 in Health and Social Care and have been in a managerial position for the last 5 years. Last year, I also completed leadership training to further enhance my skills.


I can’t live without coffee, and I’m especially fond of my sister’s brew. When I have the chance, I love travelling and taking my family on trips to explore new places. Camping is one of my favourite outdoor activities, and I always look forward to the next adventure.


Kinga

Kinga Polak-Choat

Job Title: Home Administrator

Joined: 2024

My name is Kinga Polak-Choat, and I am the Home Administrator at Runwood, where I started in August 2024. Although I am new to this role, every day brings something different. I have the opportunity to meet new people regularly and continuously learn and grow in this position.


I hold a master's degree in management and marketing, which has helped me transition into this role. Before joining Runwood, I spent 9 years working as a bookkeeper, collaborating with various businesses across different sectors. This experience has shaped my approach to organisation and problem-solving in my current role.


Outside of work, I’m known as the "food monster" at home, as I love to cook and eat! I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and taking walks with my dog. When I find the time, I also make it a point to attend body combat classes to stay active.


Alex

Alex Ile

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2024

Hi, I’m Alex Ile, and I’m currently the Deputy Manager at Runwood Homes, having rejoined the team in July 2024. I truly enjoy the caring side of my job, especially meeting new people, working with different organisations, and tackling the day-to-day challenges that come with it. As a registered nurse, this role is a great opportunity to continue making a positive impact on people’s lives.


I’m all about bringing joy to the workplace—I love making people laugh and being jolly, often cracking jokes at my own expense! Outside of work, I’m a fan of going to the gym to stay active, and I have a keen interest in computers and watching documentaries. Life is all about balance, and I like to keep things both fun and focused.


Andras

Andras Papp

Job Title: Head Chef

Joined: 2023

Hi, I’m Andras, the Head Chef at Runwood Homes since September 2023. I have a passion for cooking and baking, and I truly enjoy creating delicious meals for our residents. One of the highlights of my day is interacting with residents during meal times, as it brings a personal touch to what I do.


I’m proud to share that I won the Chef of the Year 2023 award, a milestone that reflects my dedication to my craft.


Outside of the kitchen, I love playing football, going fishing, and savouring a good cup of coffee—because life is always better with coffee!


Teri

Teri Went

Job Title: Housekeeper

Joined: 2021

Hi, I’m Teri, and I’m proud to be a Housekeeper at Blackthorns. I joined Runwood in 2021, and in 2023, I stepped into my current role. I’m passionate about maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and take great pride in ensuring our home is welcoming and comfortable for everyone.


Building meaningful relationships with residents and their families is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. I love contributing to a positive environment where everyone feels cared for and valued.


Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my house rabbit, Barnabi, who always keeps life interesting! I’m also a fan of holidays and cherish opportunities to relax and explore new places.


Frequently Asked Questions about Blackthorns

What types of Care is Blackthorns registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Respite Care, Physical Disability & Sensory Impairment are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

What additional types of Care does Blackthorns provide?

Palliative Care, Convalescent Care & End of Life Care are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does Blackthorns have?

There are 56 Single Rooms and 3 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Blackthorns?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Bar/Café, Residents Kitchenette, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Blackthorns to the centre of Halstead?

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