Read House

23 The Esplanade, Frinton-on-Sea CO13 9AU
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9.9 25 Reviews
  • Read House, Frinton-on-Sea
Read House is a Residential Care Home caring for all kinds of residents, making the most of a modern and purpose-built interior.

Situated on the seafront at Frinton on Sea, overlooking the greensward, close to local shops and transport links. The majority of staff are qualified to at least NVQ 2 and many also have NVQ 3. The management team has all been in post for many years.

All rooms have en-suite facilities, personal phone lines can be arranged, Residents can also access Wi-Fi from anywhere in the home. The majority of rooms overlook the sea with some having direct access to the home's gardens.

The home has a large quiet and secluded garden with plenty of space to walk around or sit and spend time together.

Read House provides high-quality food and has a dedicated activities co-ordinator who arranges a wide variety of activities and outings for residents, following meetings with residents to plan the programme.

Under their latest CQC Inspection (December 2020) Read House was rated as 'Good' in all categories.

Care Provided by Read House

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Younger Adults
  • Care Types Provided
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 40 Service Users
  • Privately Owned
  • Care Offered
  • AIDS/HIV
  • Alcohol Dependence (past or present)
  • Asperger Syndrome
  • Autism/ASD
  • Bariatric Care/Obesity
  • Bipolar/Manic Depression
  • Cancer Care
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Challenging Behaviour/Psychosis
  • Colitis & Crohn's Disease
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Down Syndrome
  • Epilepsy
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Orthopaedic
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • End of Life Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Physiotherapy

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Helen Spurgeon (Home Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 60+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (36)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (2)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (2)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Year Purpose Built: 1999
    • Last Refurbishment: 2023
    • Number of floors: 3

Funding & Fees Guide for Read House

  • 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 £1,330 – £1,650
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care £1,330 – £1,750
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Read House to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Stairlift
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting
  • Visitors for residents welcome at any time. Visitors welcome to look around the home at any time, but please contact the home first to ensure a member of staff can be made available to provide a tour of the home.


  • Parking
  • Read House provides free parking facilities to visitors. Ample free parking on The Esplanade right in front of the Home!


Total of 25, showing 1-20
9.9

Read House has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.864) out of 10, based on 22 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Read House has 25 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Date Published

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have recently had to place my mother, who has dementia, into a care environment. After much research and visiting homes, I selected Read House, Frinton- on-Sea. I have to say, from day one, I have been amazed by the dedication and care the staff have displayed supporting my mother (and me) to smooth
this hard transition. My biggest fear was my mother being left in a room being fed and safe but not happy. My mother is safe and 'well fed' and is really happy and, despite dementia, says how lovely the staff are. I don't think anyone but a close relative would understand the fears of the move to a care home, but I applaud Read House for everything they have done to make this easier.

Reply from Helen Spurgeon, Home Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! We are so happy your mother has settled in well.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Read House is in such a beautiful location overlooking the seafront in Frinton on Sea.
A friend of mine who is in her mid-90s needed respite care following an operation. She was very anxious and nervous about going into a care home setting but was very happy within a short time of arriving.
The manager
was lovely and went above and beyond to ensure my friend felt very welcome and all the staff were very reassuring, kind, and supportive.
My friend received excellent care and was very complimentary about the food, and facilities activities and overall very impressed with everything at Read House.

Reply from Beverley Wilson, Administrator at Read House

Thank you very much for your feedback! We aim for only the highest standards in everything we do.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad moved into Read House this week. The manager has been outstanding in the support she has given us, making the transition for us all go smoothly.
The manager has made herself available all day to help with our needs, she even helped the maintenance man move Dad's furniture and items he wanted
to bring to the home.

Reply from The Manager, Manager at Read House

Thank you for sharing your experience. We're so glad to hear that your dad's transition to Read House has gone smoothly. It's wonderful to know that the manager has been so supportive and attentive to both your family's needs and your dad's. The level of care you described truly highlights the commitment to providing a positive and seamless experience.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I came to Read House for 2 weeks of respite care following major knee surgery. I had an excellent experience. The staff are very caring and professional. Residents are treated with respect in a positive manor. Happy atmosphere. The lunch is tasty and appropriate. Exercises are well taught.

Reply from The Manager, Manager at Read House

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive time at Read House during your recovery. Our team works hard to provide the best care possible, so it's wonderful to know that you felt well cared for and supported. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to the staff. Wishing you continued recovery and all the best moving forward!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A beautiful home with really welcoming, friendly, and helpful management and staff. My Mother-in-law didn't want to be in respite care and determined she wasn't going to like it, but everyone was so positive and encouraging. Excellent food, with my MIL deliberately seated with other residents who would
be friendly and welcoming. Lots of activities and she was encouraged to take part when she felt comfortable.

Reply from Helen Spurgeon, Home Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! We aim for the highest standards in everything we do!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad moved into care home on Wednesday, we were literally told on Tuesday night by his social care worker that he must move into the home the following day, not at all prepared, however it was kindly suggested that my mum comes with him on Wednesday and stay a couple of nights, which made the whole
experience a lot smoother, as I said we really weren't prepared. As you walk in, it's really welcoming (feels like home) and currently being done up. Beautiful grounds and right on the seafront - stunning. My dad hasn't been there a week yet but so far so good and I'm sure this shall continue.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff at Read House were amazing. They treated my dad with respect and the care they gave him was excellent. Without exception, they always went the extra mile. The food at the home was really first class and my dad always enjoyed it. All the other staff at the home were very good, including the
lady in reception and the maintenance men.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind feedback! We aim to provide the highest level of care and make Read House our resident's home.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Dad moved in almost two years ago, his decision. Physical and mental health needs addressed and implemented immediately. Regular communication with staff was very reassuring, especially as Dad could be a 'challenging' client at times. Overall impressions over 2 years, excellent all around! Would recommend
wholeheartedly. Dad died 16/01/24, respectful and dignified right to the end.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! Dad was such a massive part of the Read House family and will be sorely missed.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My wife moved into this home for a respite visit in the first instance. She found this move unsettling and was very anxious. On her admission day, all the staff were welcoming and well-prepared. Since then, they have tried to integrate her gradually into the day-to-day activities at the home. She seems
to be responding well to this. So much so, I have decided to progress her respite stay to permanent stay. The staff have continued to work with her to promote her well-being in this setting.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! We are so pleased your wife is settling in well. We aim to make our home feel like everyone's home and help them feel as comfortable as possible!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The admission process was fantastic. Within 36 hours from initial enquiry my mum was welcomed and everyone made her welcome and seemed kind and caring. The house seems clean, well-presented and somewhere everyone should want to end up at.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your lovely feedback! We strive to ensure that every single resident feels at home at Read House.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

What an amazing experience. I found the home to be very well run. The manager is very approachable and friendly. Answered any questions we had and was very professional. The Christmas party was good fun, and we were impressed with the attention to detail, especially the standard of the food. Good fun
to see the manager dressed as Mrs Claus!

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! We are very passionate about all the aspects of care we provide. We pride ourselves in providing top-class food and activities!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My uncle has resided at Read House for over eight years. During this time his care has been exemplary. The staff are kind and caring. Read House is always very clean and tidy. I would not hesitate in recommending Read House for anyone considering looking for a care home.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind feedback! We are delighted that you are happy with the care and facilities that we provide. We are extremely passionate about delivering the highest levels of care and working closely with families.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Overall I would say a very good experience. The staff are caring and very professional. Management are also very professional and they are approachable. Clean and hygienic. Food terrific. Very well-kept corridors and rooms. Only one caveat, I've had lots of difficulty trying to use the app, although
the staff and management are very patient in trying to connect me!

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind comments! We are always here to assist with any matters!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have found the home to be very well run. The staff and manager are very helpful and friendly. The meals are really nice and varied. The daily activities are really good for the residents.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you very much for your kind review! Feedback is extremely important to us. We pride ourselves in running an outstanding home both in the care we provide and the additional things such as food and activities that make such a massive difference to the comfort of our residents!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Absolutely delighted with the way Mum is looked after here and impressed with the facilities and the very helpful and supportive staff. She couldn't be in a better place.

Reply from Ged Bamberger, Regional Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! Feedback is very important to us and we are so pleased that you are happy with the home and quality of care.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Over the last few months, I have been very impressed with the care my mother has received in Read House Care Home. The patient, caring and 'can do' attitude of all the staff is remarkable. The ambience and atmosphere are homely. The continuing refurbishment is attractive and of a high standard. Hopefully,
the extensive garden will be improved over time. Thank you to all who contribute to a lovely care home.

Reply from Juliet Nightingale, Manager at Read House

Your kind feedback is greatly appreciated. Here at Read House, our constant endeavour is to provide the highest quality of care to all our residents, while also nurturing a welcoming, family-like atmosphere that includes everyone.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very happy to see my mum happy and cared for. I feel that her safety is supported and her care is 100%.
Mum loves all the care and help she gets.

Reply from Juliet Nightingale, Manager at Read House

Thank you for the review. Feedback is very important to us, we are thrilled you are happy with the home and standard of care.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very happy here at Read House and I love my room.

Reply from Juliet Nightingale, Manager at Read House

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We love having you at Read House and we strive to continue working, as a family, for the best interests of everyone here.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very happy to be here in Read House. So far, I have no complaints.

Reply from Juliet Nightingale, Manager at Read House

Thank you for your kind review! Feedback is very important to us, we are thrilled you are happy with the home and standard of care.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Had respite care for two weeks to enable my son, who is my carer, to go on holiday. I was apprehensive at first, but all turned out to perfection. Very happy to return, if needs be. Read House was recommended to me by my sister, who lives locally in Frinton.

Reply from Juliet Nightingale, Manager at Read House

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that your stay at Read House exceeded your expectations. It's wonderful to know that you felt comfortable and well cared for during your stay. We would be more than happy to welcome you back if the need arises in the future.


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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.864)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.864) out of 10 for Read House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.9 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 4.864 for Read House is calculated as follows: ( (225 Excellents x 5) + (31 Goods x 4) + (2 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 258 Ratings = 4.864

  • 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 Read House 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 40 registered maximum number of service users is 8, 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: 23 Dec 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 (5)

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Meet the Team (1)

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Helen Spurgeon

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2023

With a wealth of experience in the care sector working her way up from being a carer, Helen has dedicated numerous years within the care sector.


Sharing Memory Lane's visionary outlook, Helen is committed to providing the utmost compassionate care for each and every resident. Harnessing her extensive knowledge and expertise, she serves as a source of inspiration for her exceptional team, empowering them to deliver care and support to our residents in a manner that maximizes their well-being. Within our nurturing and inviting environment, we strive to create a place that feels like a warm and welcoming home away from home.


Moreover, Helen's passion for the care sector extends beyond her role at Read House. She actively seeks opportunities to engage with the wider community, advocating for the rights and well-being of seniors. Helen consistently strives to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults. Her dedication to improving the quality of care goes beyond the confines of our home, as she endeavours to create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion throughout the entire care sector. Helen's unwavering commitment to her profession and her unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of our residents make her an invaluable asset to the Read House family.


Frequently Asked Questions about Read House

What types of Care is Read House registered for?

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

What additional types of Care does Read House provide?

Palliative Care, Physiotherapy, Own GP if required & End of Life Care are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does Read House have?

There are 36 Single Rooms and 2 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Read House?

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

How far is Read House to the centre of Frinton-on-Sea?

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