South Cary House

South Street, Castle Cary BA7 7ES
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9.8 38 Reviews
  • South Cary House, Castle Cary
South Cary House is a converted Grade II Georgian house, with redevelopment having made the most of its homely qualities to benefit older people with care needs.

The focus is on quality of life at all times, taking pride in a good staff to residents ratio and with an experienced team that specialise in a wide range of needs, including palliative care.

The accommodation is organised to suit a choice of lifestyle, with en-suite rooms, privacy respected, a sun lounge and well-kept gardens.

South Cary House offers a busy programme of Activities which include Pottery, Music therapy, visiting musicians, Ballroom dancing and many more cultural and social events.

South Cary House is part of Avon Care Homes Group.

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Care Provided by South Cary House

  • Type of Service
    • Residential Home
  • Privately Owned
  • For a maximum of 23 Service Users
  • Primary Care Categories
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Other Care Provided
  • Day Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • James Dale (Home Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (23)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No
    • Last Refurbishment: 2010

Facilities

  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access

South Cary House Reviews (38)

Total of 38, showing 1-20
9.8

South Cary House has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.848) out of 10, based on 19 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time South Cary House has 38 reviews.

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Review from S H (Friend of Resident) published on 31 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I recently had the pleasure of visiting South Cary House, what a Beautiful Care Home and I must say, my experience was exceptional. The staff were incredibly professional and polite, making me feel welcome and comfortable from the moment I arrived. The care provided at this facility is truly outstanding
- the residents are well taken care of and the home is maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness and tidiness. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the home was evident as soon as I walked in, and I have no doubt that the residents feel just as welcomed and cared for. I highly recommend South Cary house to anyone in search of a caring and comfortable home for their loved ones.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your kind words! Were thrilled you had a positive experience at South Cary House. Our team is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming, and high-standard environment for our residents, and your feedback means the world to us. We truly appreciate your recommendation!


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Review from Roger J (Friend of Resident) published on 25 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My wife and I recently visited South Cary House to visit our friend who has resided there since October last year. It was so nice to see him happy, comfortable and feeling safe. He spoke very highly of all the staff and indeed on our two visits we too have been super impressed with the friendly and
caring nature of everyone we met whilst there. Our friend told us that he was really happy with all his food and having commented to the staff on the lovely smells of a roast dinner being cooked we were even offered the chance to stay for lunch.
All in all a lovely place for our friend to now be living in.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your lovely review! We're delighted to hear that your friend is happy, comfortable, and feeling safe at South Cary House. It's wonderful that you had such a positive experience during your visits and felt the warmth and care of our team. We truly appreciate your kind words.


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Review from J M (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very well looked after staff friednly and helpful. Cleanliness of room sometimes not good.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your feedback! We're delighted to hear that you found our staff friendly and helpful. We sincerely apologize if the cleanliness of the room did not meet your expectations. To improve, we are reviewing our housekeeping procedures to ensure consistency, providing additional training to our team to maintain high standards, and implementing more frequent room checks for quality assurance.


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Review from Kelly E (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 14 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My Grandad moved into South Cary House in the later half of last year. This was the best decision he made. The care home is amazing, the staff are all 1st class and he is so happy living there. He loves all the food and I must admit it smells delicious every time I go in. When visiting, I am always
welcomed with a smile and they have been fantastic with my children when I take them in to see their Great Grandad.
The staff go above and beyond, nothing is too much trouble. Right from the moment Grandad moved in, he felt at home. It is like a family.
The home itself is beautifully looked after and they have a wonderful selection of activities week in week out. The day trips they put on are brilliant.
Overall, I am so happy to know that my Grandad is in a warm, welcoming home who outstanding care.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your kind words! We're so happy your Grandad feels at home and that you and your family have had such a great experience. It means a lot to us!


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Review from Nick E (Grandson of Resident) published on 14 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

When my Grandad moved into South Cary House I was impressed right from the very moment I walked in. He has a lovely room, beautiful view onto the garden and is well maintained . In fact the whole care home is beautiful. It has become a home for my Grandad, he is happy and safe. I am happy to know he
is in the best care home, with wonderful staff who go above and beyond. He wants for nothing, anything they can do to make his life more comfortable., they do.
The staff are all very friendly, professional and most importantly for me they are caring. To know that your loved one is being cared for by wonderful people means a lot.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your lovely review! We're so pleased your Grandad feels at home and well cared for. Your kind words mean a lot to our team!


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Review from P F (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

South Cary House has become a home from home for my elderly father (now 88). He feels extremely comfortable and safe there and values the care, humour and friendship of the staff. As a relative, I appreciate the professionalism and responsive of the staff and management. The gardens are beautiful and
the activity schedule is thoughtful and well-executed.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted that your father feels at home and enjoys the care, companionship, and activities at South Cary House. Your kind words about our team, gardens, and professionalism mean so much to us. We truly appreciate your support!


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Review from Paula H (Friend of Resident) published on 27 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I recently had the opportunity to visit your care home where my friend resides and I must say, the experience was truly heartwarming. The support from the staff is excellent; they go above and beyond to ensure that every resident feels cared for and valued. The care my friend receives is outstanding
and it's clear that the staff genuinely care about their well-being.
The staff members are not only professional but also approachable, creating a sense of community that is comforting for both residents and their families.
Additionally, the home itself is beautiful, providing a warm and inviting environment. As someone who has worked as a community staff nurse and has been in numerous care homes, I can confidently say this place stands out for its exceptional quality of care and compassion. It truly feels like a home and I am grateful for the positive impact it has on my friend's life.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your kind words and recognition of our team's dedication. I will pass your feedback on to the staff and we're so pleased to know our care and environment have had such a positive impact on your friend's life.


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Review from Sandra M (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 December 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad moved into South Cary House at the end of October, I can't believe the difference in him, he is so happy, and having people around him has been the making of him!
The staff are all first class, nothing is too much trouble, and they always make you feel welcome, no matter what time of the day
it is, the other residents have made Dad feel welcome,
It's such a relief to know that Dad is safe and very well cared for,
Dad loves the food, and the routine of the meals suits him.
A very special place, we are very lucky to have Dad here!

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear how happy your dad is at South Cary House and that he's settled in so well. Our team takes great pride in making everyone feel welcome, and it's wonderful to know it's making such a positive difference.


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Review from A G (Daughter of Resident) published on 4 December 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has received excellent, true, kind, and caring care since he arrived at South Cary House. He was given the opportunity to be independent, having been in hospital. When his health deteriorated hugely, the care increased to an exceptional level. All needs have been met whilst retaining dignity
and respect. We are always kept fully informed and made to feel welcome by every member of staff. Being able to visit at any time of day or night was invaluable when my father was very ill. South Cary House has given us, as a family, comfort and the security of knowing my father is safe. The general day-to-day running of the home has given my father the chance to be involved in activities as well as eat solid and delicious meals with all staff ensuring he eats well. When he was very ill, staff took immense time with him and helped build up his strength and he is now eating without assistance. He is also helped out of his bed so that he may enjoy his surroundings. We couldn't be more happy.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your wonderful review. We are truly touched by your kind words and are so glad that your father feels cared for and supported at South Cary House.


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Review from Carol D (Niece of Resident) published on 12 September 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I now have experience of 3 care homes, due to stays by different elderly relatives. South Cary House far excels the other 2 care homes and is off the scale in terms of the care, attention and respect they pay to the residents.
They constantly look after the residents making sure they are comfortable,
clean, tidy and stimulated. They also ensure that the residents have full medical care and arrange to take them and escort them to medical appointments.
They bring in regular weekly visitors to sing to the group or stimulate them through crafts such as pottery.
Each day they seem to arrange entertainment for the residents, including games in the garden.
There is a greenhouse, so my uncle often helped out with the gardening and watering. He loved it.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend South Cary House to anyone looking for exceptional care for their loved ones.
The staff and management are absolutely wonderful, keeping me regularly appraised of any concerns they may have.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We are truly delighted to hear about your positive experiences at South Cary House. We take great pride in ensuring that all our residents feel comfortable, stimulated, and well-cared for. It warms our hearts to hear that your uncle enjoyed his time in the greenhouse and found joy in gardening. I will relay the amazing feedback to the staff.


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Review from T H (Niece of Resident) published on 4 September 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My uncle spent his last few years at South Cary House and the care he received was outstanding. The staff were always helpful, friendly and truly cared for the residents. The home was clean and well-maintained. With a sunroom that brightened everyone's day. The entertainment director kept the residents
engaged with seasonal activities and the visiting care home dogs added a special touch of comfort. I highly recommend South Cary House for anyone seeking a caring and compassionate environment for their loved ones.

Reply from James Dale, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. We're truly grateful to hear that your uncle's time at South Cary House was marked by outstanding care and comfort. Our dedicated staff takes great pride in creating a warm and engaging environment for all our residents and it's wonderful to know that the sunroom, activities and visiting care home dogs brought joy to his days. Your recommendation means a lot to us.


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Review from J H (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother came to South Cary House after surgery for some additional recovery and recuperation. After looking around the home I was immediately impressed with the homely atmosphere and friendly staff. The manager made the admission process very easy and stress-free. Since being at South Cary House our
experience has been excellent. All the staff go above and beyond to be helpful, nothing seems to be too much trouble. I am particularly grateful for the support that I have also received at what is a difficult time. The manager keeps me fully briefed on everything pertaining to my mother's care and medical needs.
The staff are this home's biggest asset and they are very much appreciated.

Reply from Julia Rea, General Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful that you chose South Cary House for your mother's recovery, and we're delighted to hear that your experience has been so positive. It's heartening to know that our staff has made a difference during this difficult time and we're glad you feel well-supported and informed about your mother's care. Your appreciation for our team means the world to us, as they strive every day to provide the best possible care and comfort for our residents. Thank you again for your trust and for sharing your experience.


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Review from J F (Daughter of Resident) published on 15 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Staff couldn't have been more helpful with admitting Mum, providing support and advice. Rooms very airy and bright, with a fabulous outlook onto a colourful garden. All staff very attentive at all times. A varied programme of entertainment. Would have no hesitation in recommending this care home.

Reply from Julia Rea, General Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your kind words and positive review! We are thrilled to hear that you and your Mum had such a wonderful experience. Our team takes great pride in providing attentive care, and it's heartwarming to know that you felt supported throughout the process. We're glad you love our bright rooms and garden views, as well as our entertainment program. Your recommendation means the world to us. Thank you for trusting us with your Mum's care!


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Review from I W (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 April 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum was booked in at very short notice but the admin was fast, efficient, and friendly.
I felt very confident handing Mum's care over having had sole responsibility as her carer for 6 and a half years, I was anxious for the move to be a good experience and it was. All the staff are very kind, helpful
and respectful.
My only criticism; a shame the lift isn't big enough for wheelchairs and stairs need underlay as very noisy!

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Manager at South Cary House

We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with our brilliant team and the overall care provided for your mum. Knowing that you felt confident entrusting her care to us after being her sole carer for 6.5 years is truly gratifying. We take pride in our kind, helpful, and respectful staff who strive to make each resident's experience exceptional. Regarding your concerns about the lift and stairs, we want to assure you that the lift is indeed wheelchair accessible, although we acknowledge its size limitations. Additionally, due to the wooden staircase, natural creaks may occur. We'll certainly take your feedback on board and explore ways to mitigate noise levels.


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Review from Paul S (Son of Resident) published on 14 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother was admitted at the beginning of February and was apprehensive at first about leaving her home; however, after just three weeks, she loves her room and environment and is really appreciative of the care she receives from the care home staff who are all lovely.

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your lovely comments; I will pass these over to the staff.


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Review from E L (Son of Resident) published on 31 October 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

South Cary House has a very warm, friendly feel. All the residents are made to feel that it is their home, not just a home. All the staff are always friendly, cheerful and caring. Activities are arranged every day, nearly always twice a day. Even when, like most businesses, they have struggled to recruit
staff, the residents have been well looked after. I don't think Mum could find anywhere better or more suited to her needs.

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you so much for your kind words; I will pass this on to the staff.


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Review from Penny N (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum has lived at South Cary House for over seven years. The staff are unfailingly friendly, caring, cheerful and accommodating, coping fantastically throughout COVID. The assortment of dogs trotting around the house definitely make it feel like a home rather than an institution. The regular updates
on social media are excellent and enable us to see what Mum has been doing (even though, sadly, she cannot remember). As mum becomes more frail I have found the staff tremendously supportive (for me, as well as her) and I cannot thank everyone enough for all they do.

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your lovely review, we are so glad you are enjoying our social media updates, it's lovely doing the activities with them and sharing it all with you. It's great having the dogs being part of the team, as the residents enjoy their company.


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Review from Sally C (Friend of Resident) published on 4 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I will visit a friend twice a week who lives in South Cary House and everyone is helpful and friendly, from the girls that keep the rooms immaculately clean to the management staff. The gardens are lovely to sit out in the warm weather and there are daily activities to take part in, if you wish to.

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Home Manager at South Cary House

Thank you for your lovely review, we agree that the gardens are a beautiful place to sit in the warm weather.


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Review from David M (Son of Resident) published on 4 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother was cared for at South Cary House for nearly seven years and in all that time the quality of the care and the compassion shown was exemplary. Her room was ideal, looking onto the garden, but the care and love shown by the staff was everything we could have asked for and we always felt so reassured
that she was safe.

Reply from Jenny Elsworth, Home Manager at South Cary House

What kind things to say about South Cary House, it was a pleasure to look after your mum, she always managed to make us smile with her sense of humour.


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Review from Patricia H (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has received exemplary care at Sout Cary House. The staff really care for each resident and go the extra mile to attend to their needs and to make sure they feel happy, cared for and loved. I couldn't ask for better. I'm just so sorry he's had to leave, as his needs are now greater than they
can provide. He was very happy there.

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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.848)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.848) out of 10 for South Cary House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 19 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 19 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 4.848 for South Cary House is calculated as follows: ( (193 Excellents x 5) + (28 Goods x 4) + (3 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 224 Ratings = 4.848

  • 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 South Cary House is based on 19 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 23 registered maximum number of service users is 4.6, which has been reached with 19 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: 30 Nov 2017

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Outstanding

  • 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 (1)

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Meet the Team (1)

James

James Dale

Job Title: Registered Home Manager

James has vast experience as a care home manager. He leads a highly professional team, who are devoted to enhancing the lives of our residents and their families, as they progress through later life.
His aim is to provide compassionate care with fabulous hospitality providing a culture of uncompromising excellence.


Frequently Asked Questions about South Cary House

What types of Care is South Cary House registered for?

Older Person Care & Respite Care are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

What additional types of Care does South Cary House provide?

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

How many Rooms does South Cary House have?

There are 23 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at South Cary House?

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

How far is South Cary House to the centre of Castle Cary?

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