The Briars

33 Broadway, Sandown, PO36 9BD
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9.9 46 Reviews
  • The Briars, Sandown
The Briars Care Home is proud to be rated Good overall and Outstanding in Responsive category by the CQC following their inspection in January 2020. The home is one of the best known and most respected care homes for older people on the whole island and the quality of life and happiness of its residents is testimony to the fantastic care that is delivered each and every day by the loving and caring team.

The Briars is located in Sandown, but because of its exceptional reputation residents come from across the island with families considering the additional drive a small price to pay for the superior care available.   

The Briars was a finalist in the highly respected and highly contested British Care Awards and the National Care Awards, (essentially the Oscars of the healthcare industry). The obvious pride in these achievements is shared not just by the residents and staff at the home but by everyone that supports older people across the whole island. The Manager was also presented with the accolade of best "Care Home Manager on the Island" in 2017 which she rightly dedicated to her amazing team and home.

Staff at The Briars perform reminiscence exercises with the residents, so that they can understand people’s life stories and collate information about what is important to them.

With excellent food, exceptional activities and a lovely team of dedicated staff anybody considering care for themselves or for a loved should come and see us and find out what makes the Briars the best care home on the Isle of Wight.

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Care Provided by The Briars

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 38 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Bipolar/Manic Depression
  • Cancer Care
  • Challenging Behaviour/Psychosis
  • Epilepsy
  • Head/Brain Injury
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Day Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Lesley Shaw (Home Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (38)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (12)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No
    • Last Refurbishment: 2012

Funding & Fees Guide for The Briars

  • 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 £1,157 – £1,700
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,157 – £1,700
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care £1,157 – £1,700
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,157 – £1,700

  • Last updated March 2024.


    Exact fees depend on the specific care requirements of each individual following assessment.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact The Briars to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

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

  • There are no restrictions on visiting Loved Ones. The Briars is the resident's home and therefore visitors are welcome anytime.


  • Parking

  • Like most other facilities on the Isle of Wight, The Briars Care Home does not have large parking availability. Some time ago the home took a decision, for the benefit of its resident, to convert previously allocated car parking space into a lovely communal outdoor facility for the residents to enjoy. Residents, families and visitors are unanimous in supporting this decision and the benefits of it are evident every day in the resident's wellbeing and happiness. This part of the reason the home achieved Outstanding at the last CQC inspection.


    Visitors are therefore advised to make use of the plentiful on-road car parking space that is available around the home.


The Briars Reviews (46)

Total of 46, showing 1-20
9.9

The Briars has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.930) out of 10, based on 12 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Briars has 46 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 30
  • 15
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0

Date Published

46
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Review from B S (Friend of Resident) published on 19 November 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our dear friend was a resident for just over 3 years. In this time, the standard of care was exceptional. The management and all the care staff were all very approachable and attentive. Our friend passed her last years being happy and comfortable. The Briars itself is maintained to an exceptionally
high standard of cleanliness and decoration. Good management, good staff, makes for a very pleasant environment. My sincere thanks to you all.

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Review from Inga H (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very happy with the care my mum receives at The Briars Care Home. Everyone is very caring and supportive of her. Making sure that she is safe and happy. They always keep me updated on her well-being. Many thanks.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your review. It is a pleasure to care for your mother.


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Review from L O (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 May 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad has been at The Briars for 3 weeks now and I can’t believe the difference in him. We went from him trying to see if he could climb the fence to get out (no way was this possible) to today, exactly 3 weeks after arriving, returning to The Briars after lunch out with the family and having him tell
me he was glad to be home.
The staff at the Briars have been absolutely amazing, not only with my dad but with me too. They have made us both feel welcome and most importantly, my dad feels safe. Within days of his arrival one staff member realised my dad enjoyed a bath and if he was a little anxious a bath helped him relax. I’d never known my dad to take a bath, but here I am buying bubble bath for him!
My dad has a beautiful bright sunny room with a view over the hills, which I think he’s hardly noticed as he spends all his time in the communal area or the garden where there always seems to be something or other going on. To all the staff at The Briars, thank you.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your wonderful review and kind words. Dad has certainly settled well and it's a pleasure to care for him and see him getting so much enjoyment out of each and every day.


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Review from L B (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 May 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother came to live at The Briars last year. It is wonderful to see how settled she is, and I'm really happy with the care she is receiving. The Briars has friendly, caring & committed carers team. The communication is good when ever needed her needs will increase as her Alzheimer's progresses. But
its good that she has been able to tell me she is happy, everyone is very kind & caring, she has friends. We know she is in the right place.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your excellent review. Your mum has settled in very well and is a pleasure to care for her. It's lovely to hear her chatting to her friends and enjoying the activities.


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Review from C S (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 April 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Outstanding care delivered in a friendly and caring environment. Staff are eager to help and facilitate family needs.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your kind words which I will share with the staff.


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Review from Martin S (Resident) published on 11 April 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I remain very happy with the care that The Briars team gave to my wife for the last three years and more latterly me since last December. I particularly appreciate the care the staff have given me since I moved in and the kind attention they give me each day. I would not really ask for anything more
and certainly have nothing to complain about.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your excellent review and it is a pleasure to care for both of you.


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Review from Erica D (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

In the last 3 months, it has been such a piece of mind knowing that mum is safe and well cared for. All the staff seem to genuinely love their jobs and mum loves them all. Whenever I call to see how mum is doing, whoever answers the phone can give me an instant update on what sort of day she is having
without having to go and find out. I had reservations about mum going into a home but she is safe, well cared for and stimulated. I wish we had done it sooner. Thank you everyone.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your kind words. Your mum is a pleasure to care for and it's wonderful to see how happy and busy she is each day.


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Review from Emma M (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 21 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

What I can say that represents how myself and husband feel about the staff at the Briars.
You have shown so much warmth, care and love to our dad.
To one stay member in particular, we want you to know how fond Dad was of you! You are amazing.
Thank you for being there for us today, you are also
amazing. As all the staff.
All of you have made Dad's last year and last days happy.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Thank you for your kind words. Your dad was a pleasure to care for and we are proud to have made the last year of his life as happy and comfortable as possible.


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Review from J L (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 January 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A lovely, caring and friendly home. Mum settled very quickly and the care Mum receives is excellent. All the staff are friendly and attentive. Mum is happy and always kept "busy" with a nice range of activities. As family, myself and my sister are made to feel welcome each time we visit. Thank you everyone!

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your kind comments. Your mum is a pleasure to care for and has quickly become a much-loved member of The Briars family.


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Review from J G (Sister of Resident) published on 8 December 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The experience I have at all times visiting is always good. The staff are all amazing and very patient with all the residents. All your staff treat every resident as an individual with their needs. I know every time I visit my sister she is very well looked after. The Briars is an amazing place and
I would recommend it to anyone. There is so much interaction with all the residents from the carers.

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Review from Jacqui M (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 6 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We visit as much as we can, as we live on the mainland and cannot visit as often as we would like. The staff are always very helpful, especially when the situation can be difficult when we visit and also keep us fully informed of any issues with either my father-in-law or his wife, both of whom are
now permanent residents. I have always been able to talk to the management as needed and they have advised us on any queries that we have had, including finance. Both of our parents seem to be happy and settled, although communication with either of them is now quite difficult. I would like to thank everyone at Briars for the care and attention that I can see they give to all their residents in these difficult circumstances.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your kind words and it is a pleasure to care for both your father-in-law and his lovely wife.


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Review from F M (Sister of Resident) published on 13 October 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My brother had a fall and was dealt with quickly and has been in hospital. I went to see him today and found him looking quite well at the home, very clean and presentable which he always is when I visit. He is very happy at The Briars and finds that they are always there for him even for a chat which
seems to put him at ease as he gets confused easily, especially since being in hospital.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Many thanks for your kind words and your brother is a pleasure to care for.


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Review from Jo B (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 October 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I visit my mum at least twice a week generally and have been for a few years now. The care staff are always polite and helpful and I am confident she is well cared for. I do have concerns over upper management, (not with the assistant manager). Very little contact, poor communication skills. Also, lately,
I feel there could be improvements with the activities - basically - more of them, as was once the case, prior to the pandemic. I have noticed that most of the residents respond to music/singing, for example, which was once a more regular activity. Maybe more one-to-one chats/reading where possible. Volunteers?

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Review from C O (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 June 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have no complaints with The Briars all the staff are friendly and professional. My mother is well cared for and happy taking only 2-3 weeks to settle in completely.

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Review from H J (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 June 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has now lived at The Briars for over five years, and I have been extremely happy with the general standard of care provided at most times. The care staff are usually outstanding and provide "kind" care for residents who can have very difficult needs. I would like to thank all the wonderful
staff at The Briars for their care of my mother and their ongoing support of me when I visit.

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Review from S N (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 April 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

It was highly recommended for my Dad to go to the Briars care home. He has settled down really well. I am extremely impressed with the level of communication I receive from the staff at The Briars. I know I can phone/email for an update at any time. It is always lovely to see photos of Dad enjoying
and taking part in activities. I am happy that Dad's needs are being met and that he is safe.

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Review from Naomi E (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 March 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My experience at The Briars has always been very positive. The ladies on reception are exceptional - so helpful, cheerful and considerate. As I have only known The Briars during Covid times - I cannot express adequately how good the carers have been - they are an absolute credit to your organisation.
They are so kind and have such empathy with the residents. Always cheerful and it is like a family.

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Review from M S (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 February 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Getting Mum settled in was a challenge as it was at the height of Covid (Dec 2020) and she had to isolate on arrival and then caught Covid (Feb 2021) and had not been vaccinated. She then contracted cellulitis in her legs and had several bad falls, resulting in her being admitted to hospital or paramedics
being called out. The medication given to Mum to keep her calm was not good as it made her liable to falls. However, despite these big challenges Mum does seem to have settled more and she does seem to be well taken care of on a daily basis and the staff are responsive to her needs and are caring. We appreciate the care she is getting.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Thank you for your review and kind comments. We will share your feedback with our staff.


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Review from Shirley R (Friend of Resident) published on 8 February 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Friendly staff and lovely clean home. Residents are all really well looked after here.

Reply from Lesley Shaw, Home Manager at The Briars

Dear Shirley, Thank you for your lovely review. We will share your valuable comments with our staff.


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Review from C H (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 January 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My mother has only been in The Briars care for a short period but so far, seems to be fairly settled and I am happy with the care she has received.

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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.930)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.930) out of 10 for The Briars 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 12 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 12 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 4.930 for The Briars is calculated as follows: ( (132 Excellents x 5) + (10 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 142 Ratings = 4.93

  • 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 The Briars is based on 12 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 38 registered maximum number of service users is 7.6, which has been reached with 12 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: 19 Mar 2020

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Outstanding

  • 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 (18)

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Meet the Team (7)

Lesley

Lesley Shaw

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2019

Hello, my name is Lesley Shaw and I am proud to be the manager of The Briars.


We are based in the seaside town of Sandown on the Isle of Wight. The Briars is a specialised dementia home where the residents always come first. Our aim is to provide high quality care, in a safe and friendly environment, which respects the rights, dignity and privacy for all who live here.


Being a specialised dementia home my staff are highly qualified and dedicated ensuring everyone can live their life to the fullest. It is a privilege to be part of the team. I am a qualified, experienced manager, I believe in openness and transparency and always have time for a cup of tea and a chat. At The Briars we have strong links to our local community and always welcome new friends.


Kim

Kim Mears

Job Title: Family Liaison Manager

Joined: 2018

My role at The Briars is to offer support and advice to families who are looking for care for their loved ones. There is no greater reward for me than helping people on this journey into finding the right home. Away from work, I love to spend time with my family and friends.


Cath

Cath

Job Title: Care Supervisor

Joined: 2015

I have worked in care for 30 years in a variety of settings and positions. I joined the team at the Briars in December 2015. Supporting and caring for residents living with dementia is an integral part of my role that I find full-filling and each day brings new experiences.


Chloe

Chloe

Job Title: Senior Carer

Joined: 2015

I joined The Briars 5 years ago as a Care Assistant and have now progressed to a Senior Carer. My residents here are very important to me and I will always take time out of my shift to chat to them and check they are doing OK. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and paddleboarding, weather permitting.


Carol

Carol

Job Title: Administrator

Joined: 2017

I feel very privileged to work at The Briars, the staff and residents are what make the home such a nice place to be. I enjoy my job knowing that the job I do makes a difference to the team and residents. Out of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and walking my three terrier style dogs.


Ava-Marie

Ava-Marie

Job Title: Head Chef

Joined: 2016

I have worked in the catering sector of residential care for just over 10 years. I have previously worked as a Cook in holiday camps and public houses. I enjoy spending time with the residents and finding out about their likes and dislikes in terms of food. In my private time, I enjoy kayaking, swimming and spending time with my family.


Tony

Tony

Job Title: Head of Maintenance

Joined: 2012

I enjoy my role as no two days are the same, for example, one day I could be changing fire doors, the next making a wooden birthday cake! In my spare time, I like to go kayaking with my sons and dog in tow! We enjoy exploring the Isle of Wight with plenty of walks and trips to the beach.


Frequently Asked Questions about The Briars

What types of Care is The Briars registered for?

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

What additional types of Care does The Briars provide?

Palliative Care, Day Care & Own GP if required are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does The Briars have?

There are 38 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at The Briars?

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

How far is The Briars to the centre of Sandown?

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