Heron House

Heron Drive, Bishops Hull, Taunton TA1 5HA
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10 15 Reviews
  • Heron House, Taunton
Heron House Taunton (previously Abbeyfield Taunton) is situated on the outskirts of Taunton, and offers expert residential care, set within spacious and comfortable accommodation, overlooking pleasant communal gardens.

Bedrooms are furnished to a high standard to ensure resident comfort and the home actively encourages bringing personal items to promote a more homely and familiar space. Bedrooms all have a fully integrated 24hr call bell system.

Residential care services are available for short stay, convalescence or on a long-term basis and a range of options are available to meet each individuals needs.

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Care Provided by Heron House

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • No Medical Intervention
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 44 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • Day Care
  • End of Life Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Separate Specialist Dementia Care Unit

Good to Know

  • Owner
  • Heron House Residential Home Ltd
  • Person in charge
  • Paula Howlett (Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Private funding and Local Authority accepted
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (32)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (6)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (8)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (5)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Last Refurbishment: 2023
    • Number of floors: 1

Funding & Fees Guide for Heron 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 £1,200 – £1,885
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,330
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care £1,260 – £1,585
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,396

  • These figures are only a guide. Fees are dependent on resident need and can be discussed in detail with the General Manager when you make your initial enquiries.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Heron House to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Bar/Café
  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Ground Floor Accommodation only
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Stairlift
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting

  • The Home operates an open visiting policy which is led by the residents themselves.


  • Parking

  • Visitor parking available on site


Heron House Reviews (15)

10

Heron House has a Review Score of 10 (9.983) out of 10, based on 15 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Heron House has 15 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Review from Caroline N (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot speak highly enough of the care given to my mother from October 2020 to her death in January 2025. She started off in the residential unit but the manager felt she would be happier and better cared for in the dementia unit. Although I realised that she did have dementia, I wasn't sure how she'd
feel about the increased level of care, as she was quite unsociable. I was quite wrong though and she was much happier with the greater structure and joined in with quite a few activities, though was always given the dignity of choice. Indeed I would say that the last few years of her life were among the most peaceful that she had. The staff were unfailingly kind, thoughtful and polite. Communication with them was always easy. The management was professional, careful and individualised. The home is spotlessly clean and my mother, who was doubly incontinent, was always kept clean too and yet always with dignity. I would wholeheartedly recommend Heron House to anyone.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much. It has indeed been a pleasure and privilege to have been entrusted by you and your family to care for you mother, and indeed a privilege to have shared with you the moments of her farewell. Wishing you all the very best for our futures.


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Review from S B (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum had been at Heron House for six years and I previously put a comment on this site to say how well cared for and happy she was.
Mum passed away on New Years Eve, having spent many months in decline and suddenly spiraling. I feel fortunate that I have so many good memories of seeing how the staff
cherished, loved and protected her throughout some very difficult times.
They also went above and beyond in helping me get to Mum when I needed to be there and making me feel safe as well.

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Review from Shaun M (Son of Resident) published on 26 November 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother had been a resident at Heron House for over 3 years and it was clear at the outset that we had found her, in our opinion, the best care home in the area. The management, staff and governors are entirely focused on the care, wellbeing and support of both the residents and their families. The
building, its upkeep and cleaning/hygiene standards are first class as are the facilities and support provided to residents, to enable independence to be maintained safely for as long as possible. The care home staff team are exceptionally well lead by the Registered Manager and this is evidenced on a daily basis. As my mothers health declined and she was on an end-of-life plan, the level of care and compassion provided to her and us was above and beyond our expectations and we were so grateful for the support during that period and after her passing. The whole team made a very difficult period easier to cope with and we will always be grateful for that.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

We will miss your mum and your family. It has been an honour and privilege to have cared for such a proud and respected woman. She provided us with lots to think about and debate in her views on life! A strong character, that will leave a lasting memory. Thank you for your lovely feedback, this means a lot to myself and the team.


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Review from Caroline F (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 November 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother moved into Heron House in October. We were both anxious about the transition as she had been living independently (with some support) up to this point. However, the staff could not have been more helpful in making this a positive move for us both. My mother enjoys not having to get her own
meals and says the food is excellent. She has made some friends and (much to my surprise) joins in with the activities, which are varied and imaginative. The gardens are lovely and she likes to walk around them or sit by the pond and watch the turtles!
She is supported to maintain some independence, for example, she makes her bed and is able to self-medicate. All the staff are friendly and kind and treat the residents with respect and dignity. I honestly think we could not have found a better home. Her room and bathroom are always spotless.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your review it is a privilege and a pleasure to have been entrusted to care for your precious mum, she is a joy to be around!


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Review from Mary A (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 April 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I feel very privileged to be associated with Heron House. To be honest, I couldn’t wish for a more caring home for my parents; both of whom are in their nineties. Although not always easy, the process of acclimatization has been seamless.
The staff communicates effectively, clearly supports all the
residents in their care, and provides excellent activities both inside and outside of the home.
There is a strong family unit which is underpinned by shared team values.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

It has and continues to be a privilege to care for your parents, Mary. I have to say, it's also a joy to get to eat Mum's amazing cakes too!


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Review from Nigel M (Son of Resident) published on 6 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We moved Mum down to Taunton almost 2 years ago, initially in her own place, though that didn't work out for as long as we'd hoped. When it became clear she needed more care, we moved her to the care home. Living in New Zealand, I don't visit so regularly, but what I saw last November/December and again
in May, plus watching the activities on your social media page, and from what my sister reports, I believe Mum in in the best possible place given her stage of life, and that guys go above and beyond what could reasonably be expected to make life as good as possible for the residents. I have left the section on value for money blank. This is because I have no idea what the normal rate is for such places, or what Vsl/Mum are paying. However, I have no reason to believe that if I did gave an opinion, it would be 5 stars too! Well done, keep up the good work and see you again in December.

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

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The care home is bright and cheery in all aspects - from the gardens, the food, the staff and the decor. Constant thought and effort go into looking after residents and always seeking to make improvements - the care home does all things any good care home should do but also offers so much more - involving
residents in gardening and baking, entering and winning at the local show! involving families in decision-making and open discussions; helping residents to fulfil special bucket list wishes. The residents have fun and so do the staff. My husband and I live far away so are delighted to be part of the care home's social media family and see what Mum-in-law is up to on outings and activities. This enabled us to fit in when we visited the UK in May and we were also pleased to be able to contribute to the regular speaker entertainment series while we were around too. The care home is truly a "home" in all senses of the word. Heartfelt thank yous to all the staff and management - You are Awesome!

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Review from Val P (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum's been at the care home for almost eighteen months and has recently moved from the residential side to the dementia side. I can't rate the place highly enough - it's just amazing. I'm not at all surprised with the recent outstanding result from CQC.

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Review from S B (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

When my mother's dementia began to greatly impact her life and she was not safe to remain at home, my brother and I visited virtually every care home in the town (of which there are several). We both immediately agreed that the care home appeared by far the best choice. In the five years that she has
been there, our thoughts remain unchanged. We know that she is well cared and provided for and her needs are fully met. Often a person with dementia cannot express how they feel or if they are unwell, but the staff at the care home get to know each resident in such depth that they quickly recognise if there is a problem, or if something doesn't seem quite right. As far as we are concerned, there could not be anywhere better for our mother's care.

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Review from Wendy C (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum was a resident of the Quantock unit for eighteen months, up to her passing in September 2023.
Mum found it difficult to settle initially, but the staff worked patiently with her and she eventually settled and had some wonderfully fulfilling times with lots of fun and involving things on offer.
I
wanted to write, particularly, to say how wonderful, thoughtful and professional the staff were whilst Mum lived her final days. As a family, we were supported in being involved in Mum's care as much as we wanted and were able to. Nothing was ever too much trouble. There was a great deal of support and love for Mum and us, as a family. I was overwhelmed by the regular care given both day and night and felt that her personal, emotional and physical care could not have been any better.
Placing a loved one into care is a difficult decision, but the care home - Taunton - helped the process along by showing such love, care and understanding.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege supporting both Mum and you as her loving family. We miss her but are so pleased that you are going to continue to stay connected with the home.


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Review from Alison C (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I moved my mother into the care home from another care home and she has settled in better than I expected or could have hoped for. Her ensuite room is always bright, clean and well cared for and the staff have made a great effort to engage with her and encourage her to join in with the many activities
available. The food seems to be varied with plenty of choice and the newly installed residents' bar is a nice addition to the facilities. Staff are always friendly and approachable and there is a sense that someone is always around. Call bells are answered promptly and interactions I have heard and observed have been without fail caring and courteous. Communication with relatives is excellent, including a monthly relatives' meeting which I have found very supportive and helpful. I recommend the care home without reservation.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We feel very privileged to be entrusted with the care of your mother and are so glad that the relatives meeting is of help and support to you.


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Review from Paula F (Daughter of Resident) published on 28 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad has been a resident at the care home since June 2023. Over the past three months, we have been delighted with the care he is receiving. The care team treat him with empathy, kindness and respect. The atmosphere in the home is bright and cheerful. Dad has settled very well, his appetite has improved,
he is calmer and now starting to communicate and socialise more, with the encouragement of the staff. The family are kept well informed of Dad’s situation and any issues that might arise. After a very difficult two years for the family, we are now very reassured that Dad is in a place which fully supports his needs. Most of all, the care home truly feels as if you are “at home”.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your lovely review. It is a great pleasure and privilege to care for Dad. We're so glad that he is settling in and that he and his family feel at home.


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Review from Chris G (Son of Resident) published on 22 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

It is now two years since my mother moved into the care home in Taunton, and throughout that time she has received wonderful care in every respect (including during the very challenging lockdown periods). The home is extremely well run and the facilities are very good and spotlessly clean. There is
an excellent range of activities and the food is also excellent (my mother constantly comments about how good it is). The staff take a genuine interest in her as an individual. My mother's health and general well-being have definitely improved as a result of living here (she was previously living in a flat in sheltered accommodation), and it is a great relief to me to feel quite certain that she is in a safe and caring environment. Relatives also receive very clear and regular communication, including involvement in relevant decisions, and the staff and management are highly approachable. I would not hesitate to recommend this home to others, without any reservations.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so reassured that you have confidence in the care your mother receives and the relief you feel. It is a pleasure and privilege to care for her.


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Review from J P (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has lived in the care home for over ten years, she arrived at the age of 92! We chose the care home because it was clean, light and had a kind and friendly feel. We were made very welcome on our first visit and ended up staying for coffee and attending a communion service that just happened
to be taking place. My mother started by having two days a week daycare, she was collected from our house by their transport and delivered home in the afternoon after enjoying the activities and a tasty lunch. It progressed to a two-week trial and she has lived there ever since. She spent most Sundays with us or we had lunch with her and holidays with us which she enjoyed but was happy to return ‘home’.
My mother moved across to the Quantock Unit (dementia care) when her memory was failing. She likes to wander and is always out and about but the gardens are safe, beautiful and available to all. I spend several hours each day with Mum and see all that happens and would certainly recommend it.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your lovely review and illustration of Mum's journey at the care home. Mum's energy never ceases to amaze us all and we are deeply privileged to continue to care for her. Thank you so much for all your support and feedback to the home too, we really appreciate it.


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Review from L W (Daughter of Resident) published on 18 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Always a positive time when visiting my parents who live at the care home.
Couldn’t recommend the home and the staff highly enough. There is such a wonderful atmosphere in the home and I am so pleased they have been awarded an Outstanding CQC rating.

Reply from Paula Howlett, Registered Manager at Heron House

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. What a privilege it is that we can support both your parents here at the care home, it is wonderful that they can spend and enjoy their time together!


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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.983)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.983) out of 10 for Heron House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 15 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 15 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 4.983 for Heron House is calculated as follows: ( (176 Excellents x 5) + (3 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 179 Ratings = 4.983

  • 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 Heron House is based on 15 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 44 registered maximum number of service users is 8.8, which has been reached with 15 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: 16 Aug 2023

Overall
Outstanding

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Outstanding

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Outstanding

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 (1)

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Meet the Team (4)

Paula

Paula Howlett

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2019

Paula is a 20 year experienced psychiatric nurse who, since 2013, has been a registered manager, first in residential and later in specialist dementia care.


Paula has a passion for enriching peoples lives through meaningful occupation and promoting independence. She strives to support residents to continue to build relationships-her vision is for life to go on, not stop.


Paula's husband, Rob, is a minister of a busy church, and they have four children who are now young adults.


Lucy

Lucy Shier

Job Title: Head of Care

Joined: 2005

Lucy began her journey in care at 17 when she was offered a part-time job here at Abbeyfield-she loved it so much, she never left. During her time at Abbeyfield, she has strived to succeed and has continually developed and progressed to her current role.


Lucy is dedicated to supporting each resident to live their best life and finds each day rewarding. She feels humbled to be part of their journey and particularly enjoys listening to their life stories and anecdotes.


Lucy also has a young daughter who keeps her busy and has a passion for reading and cooking in her spare time.


Katie

Katie McClatchie

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2019

Kate has been working in the care industry for more than 20 years during which time she has constantly worked to develop her skills, knowledge and understanding of care of the elderly. Kate has worked in a variety of environments, including nursing and now residential care.


Kate loves supporting and caring for residents who live at Abbeyfield, supporting them to enjoy life to the fullest and being part of their journey.


Alongside a passion for care, Kate has also raised a family and has 5 children aged from 21 to 11, so is certainly kept busy outside of work too!


Janice

Janice Bullivant

Job Title: Activities Manager

Joined: 2014

With a genuine love for working with our residents and a deep understanding of their needs, Jan is dedicated to creating a vibrant and enriching environment for all. With 19 years at Abbeyfield and 34 years of experience in care, Jan has witnessed first-hand the transformative power of engaging in activities and promoting physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.


Jan firmly believes that every resident deserves to live a life filled with purpose and joy and she strives daily to make that a reality.


Outside of Abbeyfield, Jan continues to explore her creative side through a range of activities and hobbies. Love for her family makes her life complete as they continue to support her and all her crazy ideas! Jan has two children, 2 daschunds and a very stubborn siamese cat.


Frequently Asked Questions about Heron House

What types of Care is Heron House registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Respite Care, Physical Disability, Sensory Impairment & No Medical Intervention are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

What additional types of Care does Heron House provide?

Palliative Care, Day Care, Convalescent Care, Separate Specialist Dementia Care Unit, Own GP if required & End of Life Care are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does Heron House have?

There are 32 Single Rooms and 6 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Heron House?

Own Furniture if required, Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Stairlift, Wheelchair Access, Ground Floor Accommodation only, Gardens, Bar/Café, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Heron House to the centre of Taunton?

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