Review from Amanda B (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 January 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My father has been a permanent resident in Halliwell Care Home since June 2021 and his care has been exemplary. Sadly due to his dense stroke, he is largely immobile and relies on the Halliwell team for quite literally all of his needs from dressing, help with eating, medication, personal care to ensuring

he is moved from bed to his favourite armchair or his wheelchair. All of these activities are carried out with kindness and respect and my father's dignity is always respected.
While my father was in hospital for many weeks after his stroke he fell victim to very serious pressure sores. The nursing care he receives at the Halliwell to not only help the healing process but to ensure he suffers no more injuries of this type again is first class. The care team are very quick to respond whenever my father needs any assistance. All The Halliwell team go the extra mile.
The only reason It’s not full marks is that my Dad says the sprouts are always too hard! But you can’t have it all!

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

What a wonderful and detailed review, thank you so much. I am very proud to share this with the team as it reflects not only the care and compassion they have but also the clinical expertise.

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Review from Gillian S (Wife of Resident) published on 20 January 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My husband has been in Halliwell Care Home since suffering a stroke affecting his mobility. Right from the start all of his needs have been met in a caring, professional manner. The staff treat him with dignity and respect whilst still dealing with his many needs.
There is also care and consideration

for me as his wife. His health has deteriorated recently, he has dementia and is bed-bound, doubly incontinent, and fed puréed food. He is fed by kind nurses who chat to him in a cheerful manner I visit daily as he is on end of life pathway. Support for me has been outstanding.
The communication with me regarding my husband’s health is superb.
All through the pandemic we were kept up to date with what was going on in the home with weekly reports. This still continues now.
Halliwell is the best place I could have put my husband in to, (and I looked at many!).
I cannot recommend Halliwell highly enough.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

We are so grateful for this heartfelt review. It has been a pleasure to care for your husband and we are so glad that you feel supported too through these difficult days. Thank you so much from all of the team at Halliwell, this means a lot to us.

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Review from Jutta W (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 January 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My mum moved to the Halliwell Care Home in October. I have had a great deal of experience with care homes as my mother in law, who died in 2020, had to be moved from one to another and my father, who suffered from vascular dementia also had to be moved from his first care home to his second. I am absolutely

delighted with my mum's care and treatment at the Halliwell. Right from my initial contact with the Manager, she worked really hard to ensure that the move happened as we had to wait for the sale of my mum's home and this took longer than expected which could potentially have led to stress regarding holding the room. The manager and the team were fantastically helpful, my mum's move went like clockwork and the maintenance team colleagues had my mum's room looking really comfortable and homely in no time and were extremely obliging to ensure my mum felt at home as quickly as possible. The nursing staff and all staff I have come into contact with have been excellent.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

We are all so glad that your Mum has settled so well into her new life at Halliwell Care Home. Thank you so much for taking the time to write these very kind words, it means such a lot to me and my wonderful team especially during these very challenging days of the Pandemic.

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Review from H R (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 December 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

I have to say how disappointed our family was with Halliwell. I'm so glad he's not there anymore. Although a lot of the staff were lovely, I found the management very difficult to deal with. My father was often left in bed until nearly lunchtime which he hated. It seemed understaffed often, especially

at weekends. We found him more than once with no drink and the buzzer put where he couldn't get it so he couldn't ask for help. The management was lacking in understanding and sympathy for my mother when visiting. There were issues getting him to hospital appointments as there is apparently a lack of wheelchair taxis in the area (luckily we were able to find one ourselves). I would say that if you are able and can get about/dress yourself etc it's probably a nice place but our experience was very stressful with a constant stream of emails and calls complaining about my father who was in a lot of pain. He is very happy in his new care setting.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

I am sorry that you felt your father’s experience at Halliwell was not satisfactory. It is unusual for the home to receive negative comments, however, we have noted those you have made. We are pleased to hear that he has found somewhere that is more suitable for his and your needs.

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Review from Melissa L (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 4 October 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Staff are exceptional, offering great care to my grandad who went in for a week of respite. He was very well cared for, his room was impeccable and the grounds of the home are beautiful. Would highly recommend.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you so much for your kind review. We were very happy to be able to help.

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Review from Pamela G (Respite Resident) published on 19 July 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

I have been so well cared for that I have wondered if I would like to stay permanently.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you, Pamela, for your kind review, and if you would like to come to stay permanently, we would be only too happy to welcome you back!

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Review from Sara Y (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 July 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My father joined Halliwell as a resident in October 2020. He was immediately very warmly welcomed into the community, and his physical and medical care has been exceptional to date. Most importantly, his whole wellbeing has been a priority, enhanced by a wide range of activities, which, following his

perceptive assessment by the staff, appear to be tailor made to fit his needs. These activities have included, painting in the art studio, singing in a choir, quizzes, concerts, film nights, creative writing and themed events and frequent parties. This comprehensive programme has enabled him, even within pandemic restrictions, to express himself, feel valued and valuable, and, most importantly, to make friends with both the other residents and staff members. Furthermore, having observed the staff providing end of life care, Dad says, it is undertaken with the upmost skill and infinite kindness, I have no worries about what may lie ahead. Peace of mind, for us all.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you very much for taking the time to write this wonderful review. We are all so delighted that your father has settled into Halliwell and made the most of everything we have to offer but more importantly, truly made it home. It is a pleasure to care for him.

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Review from S L (Respite Resident) published on 30 June 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

I have stayed at Halliwell for two weeks for respite care after surgery. I cannot speak highly enough of the excellent care I have received, waited on hand and foot and enjoyed first-class restaurant food, so well presented. I will return home rather sad and will miss the help I have received, but their

care has made me stronger and will make my recovery faster thanks to the excellent nursing staff.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

What a lovely review - thank you so much. I am really pleased that we have helped with your recovery post-operatively. Please do come and stay again anytime that you need a rest!

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Review from Averil B (Resident) published on 28 June 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Halliwell Care Home gives me (and my family) complete peace of mind. The staff are trained to the highest standard and show compassion as well as expertise medically. I always feel completely safe here and steps are taken to ensure that infection is kept under control.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you very much for writing this review. I am so pleased that you feel happy and safe at Halliwell, and that you are cared for with compassion.

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Review from Mary A (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 June 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My mother is very happy and well looked after at the Halliwell, where she has lived for the past two years. The staff are really caring and supportive, and have worked extremely hard both to keep her safe during the pandemic and to make more activities available as the situation has eased up. Even when

proper visits and outings were not possible, we were able to visit her in a special visiting room, equipped with a floor to ceiling screen. My mother loves the beautiful garden, where she can get outside for a breath of fresh air, listening to birdsong and watching the flowers grow. She really enjoys meeting with friends in her bubble and, when guidance allows, joining in activities such as poetry reading. The food is very good, with a legendary pudding trolley. And the nursing staff are always on hand to help with any issues. Overall, the home seems to be a very well-managed and happy place - not cheap but worth the extra!

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

What a wonderful review, thank you so much. It is always lovely when our residents fully embrace life at Halliwell, joining activities and making friends. We are very proud of the care and service that we provide and we pride ourselves on giving that little bit extra!

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Review from Joan A (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 January 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My mother has been living at the Halliwell for nearly two years now, and her experience has been extremely positive. The way the manager and all the staff were running the place was excellent anyway, but during the pandemic, with all its uncertainties and frequent changes of policy and situation, they

have been shining stars in every way! The communication with relatives has been excellent, and residents have been very well cared for and fed. The creation of "bubbles" for the residents has been a lifesaver, and they have enjoyed the newsletter that has been created too. Frequent testing of staff and residents and sharing of the results has been helpful, and now all residents have received their first vaccine dose. I salute all the staff and residents and offer a million thanks from someone living on the opposite side of the world.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you very much for such a wonderful review. It means so much to me and to the whole team that our efforts are appreciated. It has been a terribly challenging time but we have pulled together and done our best to fight off this dreaded virus! I will share this with them all.

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Review from Patricia K (Resident) published on 8 December 2020
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Leadership starts at the top, we have an outstanding general manager, she is always available to residents and we trust her, carers are courteous and kind, always ready to listen and advise. They are sublime. We are not allowed to 'rest on our laurels' but are encouraged to 'try'. I have found the office

staff to be very kind and helpful; they always smile and make me feel 'special'. Two maintenance men will help; they are reliable, a modicum request produces an instant response. As a northerner (Yorkshire), I have been impressed by the kindness and compassion I have received. 'The best is yet to come'.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

What a very kind and heartfelt review. After the past few months of challenges and difficulties, it is an absolute pleasure to be able to share this with the whole team. Thank you so much.

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Review from Andrew C (Nephew of Resident) published on 12 November 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Our much loved Aunty very much enjoyed the last months of her life at Halliwell. It was 'like living in a hotel' she often said. The staff took a lot of time to make her feel welcome. It was great to be able to visit her when we wanted. Would definitely recommend.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you so much for your kind review. It really helps other families to know that we provide excellent End of Life care here and it is something that we are very passionate about.

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Review from David C (Son of Resident) published on 11 November 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My dad has been a Halliwell resident for 2½ years and has received excellent care for all that time, and has been particularly well protected and looked after since the Covid-19 outbreak. The home has evidently followed all the hygiene protocols relating to staff members, residents and visitors quite

strictly. He celebrated his 100th birthday last month (October 2020), and the staff and management of Halliwell made his day a special one, in obviously difficult circumstances, with music, a cake and a "bubble" get-together - and organised a video call for me with him and my sister, his designated visitor. Although frail, he is alert and appreciates the attention and affection given to him by the carers, nurses and the rest of the staff. Yes, the home is expensive, but it is reassuring for my sister and me that he is in good hands. I should add that my mum was a Halliwell resident as well, for almost 14 years, and received the same very high standard of care. Highly recommended!

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. I am sorry that you do not feel fully satisfied with the value for money. I must point out that we are not the most expensive home in Tunbridge Wells. It is a genuine pleasure for us all to care for your Dad.

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Review from Christine V (Wife of Resident) published on 10 November 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My husband was admitted to Halliwell in August this year. He is receiving end of life care. I cannot praise the care he has/is receiving highly enough. The staff are, without exception, professional, kind and caring. He is being cared for in beautiful and comfortable surroundings. The nursing and medical

care are excellent - keeping him pain-free and as comfortable as possible. Thank you so much, Halliwell.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you so much for your kind review. We are glad to be able to support you through this difficult time and are so pleased that you have felt able to share this. I will share this with the team and remain very proud of them.

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Review from Sue L (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 October 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Halliwell is truly a very special place.
Prior to becoming a resident in July 2019, our mother had spent two very happy, comfortable and contented stays here. We are extremely grateful to the general manager and her most remarkable team, for the outstanding care that is delivered to our mother, at

all times with the greatest kindness, patience and dignity.
I have been lucky enough to be able to speak regularly to my mother on the phone throughout the Covid crisis and I know how comforted and reassured she has felt by the care and attention she has received from the whole team. I cannot praise the Halliwell team enough for their exceptional response to these unprecedented times, during which their unrivalled care has continued to be nothing short of superb.
I cannot recommend them highly enough, an example to all, well done and thank you so much, Halliwell!

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a fabulous review. The fact that we are able to meet your expectations despite the current situation with the Pandemic is a true testament to the teamwork here at Halliwell. I am very proud of them all and will share your kind words with them.

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Review from Debbie R (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 October 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Halliwell is a very special place. My mother had been resident there from October 2016 until she passed away this month. This is an extremely well-managed care home and I will always be grateful for the care and compassion she received from the staff over the past few years. The staff work as a team

and all have had a part to play in improving the quality of life for my mother. As a relative, communication with the management team and nurses is so important particularly at the end of life and I am so grateful for the information and support received. I would unreservedly recommend The Halliwell to anyone investigating care for a loved one in Tunbridge Wells.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you for such a wonderful review. It has been a pleasure to get to know you over the past four years and to be able to care for your Mum especially at the end of her life. I will share your feedback with the whole team as the care provided here at Halliwell truly is a team effort. With best wishes.

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Review from David D (Son of Resident) published on 21 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My mother has been been a resident at the Halliwell for five years, initially with personal care, then over the last year with nursing care. The care she has received has been outstanding. Since the middle of March this year, the staff and residents have risen magnificently to the challenge posed by

COVID-19.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

David, thank you so much for your wonderful review. It is an absolute pleasure to care for your Mum and we are so pleased to hear your comments. The past four months have certainly been a challenge but I agree the whole team have coped remarkably well.

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Review from Jennifer C (Daughter of Resident) published on 18 June 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My father has been a resident of Halliwell for 10-months. During this time he has been looked after wonderfully well by staff who really seem to know him and are endlessly patient, kind and professional. We are profoundly grateful to all of them for their outstanding response to the needs of the residents

during the pandemic. I recommend Halliwell to anyone who needs them.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

Thank you so much for your review, especially in light of the difficult recent times. We know that your Dad took time to settle here but he is very happy and has formed some great relationships with staff and residents. We are so grateful for your recommendation.

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Review from Margaret T (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 June 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

The Halliwell Care Home should be praised for its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. From the early knowledge that the virus was spreading, the Halliwell closed its doors to visitors, and residents were confined to their rooms.
The weekly emails from the general manager were very welcome. These were

an honest account of the situation in the home and gave details of how any suspicious symptoms were being addressed. This was very reassuring and gave confidence in knowing that every possible care was being taken.
The emails also showed that all the staff were being involved and were given credit for their work. It shows that the team worked closely together.
They have my sincere thanks for their professionalism and kindness.

Reply from Eileen Allison, General Manager at Halliwell Care Home

What a wonderful review - thank you so much for taking the time to write this for us. I am incredibly proud of the team effort over the past three months to combat this dreaded virus and your feedback is very gratefully received. I realise how important it is to be honest and share information with all families so it is great to know you found it reassuring.

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Halliwell Care Home

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