Merlewood

Hollow Lane, Virginia Water GU25 4LR
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9.7 84 Reviews
  • Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood Nursing & Residential Home is a converted Victorian house with bedrooms purpose-built all on the ground floor for nursing and elderly care needs, located within 23-acre grounds and surrounded by the picturesque Surrey landscape.

The service keeps close links with related health services, including hospices, GPs in order to ensure personal care packages remain updated and effective to each individual.

Many trips, outings and events are organised as part of the home's activities programme, including musical entertainment, art and handicrafts, film shows and garden fetes.

With 42 beautifully appointed rooms, Merlewood provides a range of care types, including residential care, nursing and palliative care, and respite and short stay options, all tailored to individual needs with personalised care plans.

Merlewood is a converted Victorian house with all bedrooms on the ground floor enjoying views of the beautifully landscaped grounds. Merlewood has a tranquil atmosphere that feels like home. Residents enjoy the beauty of nature with manicured gardens, quiet walking paths, and outdoor seating areas ideal for relaxation. Known for its vibrant community and active social calendar, designed to cater to varied interests and abilities. From art classes and music therapy to themed events, residents are encouraged to engage, connect, and thrive.

Dining at Merlewood is a daily enjoyment. The in-house chef prepares nutritious and delicious meals using fresh and seasonal menus, served in an elegant dining room where residents dine together.

Merlewood’s warm and welcoming team ensures each resident feels valued, supported, and cared for in every aspect of daily life, making it a place where comfort, companionship, and exceptional care come together seamlessly.

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Care Provided by Merlewood

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Mental Health Condition
  • No Medical Intervention
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Nursing Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 54 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Care Offered
  • AIDS/HIV
  • Asperger Syndrome
  • Autism/ASD
  • Bipolar/Manic Depression
  • Cancer Care
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Colitis & Crohn's Disease
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Head/Brain Injury
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Neuropathic
  • Orthopaedic
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • End of Life Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Physiotherapy

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Debbie Vellender (General Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (54)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Last Refurbishment: 2022
    • Number of floors: 1

Funding & Fees Guide for Merlewood

  • 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 from £1,500
    • Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,250
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,600
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,350

  • We will apply for NHS-funded Nursing Care (FNC) for all residents receiving nursing care and if awarded this will be deducted from your fees.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Merlewood 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
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting

  • The home have an open visiting policy.


  • Parking

  • Ample parking on site and disabled parking by the entrance.


Merlewood Reviews (84)

Total of 84, showing 61-80
9.7

Merlewood has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.653) out of 10, based on 23 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Merlewood has 84 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 68
  • 14
  • 2
  • 0
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Date Published

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Review from Catherine R (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 May 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The most delightful staff who were so caring at all times. My mother was given the best end of life care from September 2019 to April 2020. She was happy and comfortable. Could not fault anything.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review and share your experience of your mother's time at Merlewood. We appreciate your feedback, we take pride and satisfaction in delivering quality compassionate care to our residents and their families.


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Review from Jeanie B (Aunt of Resident) published on 7 November 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The time my nephew was in Merlewood was the best we could have wished for in the circumstances. The care he was given was wonderful and after being in hospital for a week, he so appreciated the lovely food provided that was presented beautifully as well. All the staff were so good and I cannot praise
these people enough.

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Review from J G (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 October 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The staff at Merlewood are professional, caring and look after the patients with care and dignity. They kept me informed of doctors visits, medicines and her care from day to day. An advance care plan was put in place so that her wishes and mine were recorded. A very friendly atmosphere at all times
and activities were good.

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Review from Tracy B (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 May 2019
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Too many words could spoil my review. So here are just a few. Extremely grateful for the care and attention my mum was shown during the last weeks of her life. The respect and the tenderness which she was shown each and every minute, day or night is lacking in today's society.
I thank the nursing
staff who every day pass the telephone to my mum so we could continue our ritual of the daily chat. And the compassion I was shown during and after my mum passed.
Thank you all, I will never forget.

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Review from Judith H (Wife of Resident) published on 22 January 2019
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The care provided at Merlewood is excellent. The whole place looks, and smells, clean and pleasant. The residents each have an en-suite room and are treated with respect and kindness. There is a full range of social activities, organised by a very competent team, in which all are encouraged to participate.
Food is served in one of two dining rooms or in residents’ bedrooms and is good. I owe Merlewood a huge debt because when my husband came here he was given 4 weeks to live, but with the excellent care he has received at Merlewood, he is doing well over two years later!

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Review from J B (Son of Resident) published on 21 January 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been a resident for 3 years and I can honestly say the staff have looked after her wonderfully. They have displayed professionalism to the highest degree. As a family member, it has been immensely reassuring that her needs have been met in such a lovely way. Thank you.

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Review from Ron B (Son of Resident) published on 2 January 2019
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father went into Merlewood for two weeks respite care while he was there his condition deteriorated and we converted his stay to permanent. While he was there the care provided was professional, compassionate and at the very highest level.
Merlewood is a bright, cheery place, well appointed and
staffed by brilliant people. We are very grateful for the care provided to my father. Thanks and best wishes for the future.

Reply from Richard Hawes, Chief Executive Office at Merlewood

Thank you for your positive comments on our home, we try to ensure that all our residents and families have a positive experience, and will ensure your thanks are passed on to our colleagues in the home.


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Review from Andrew (Son of Resident) published on 2 January 2019
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff and organisation of Merlewood provided an excellent environment of care for my mother in her last years. This was not only a comfort to her but to our family as well - thank you.

Reply from Richard Hawes, Chief Executive Office at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, it is our aim to provide exceptional care at all times, and we will make sure your comments are passed on to colleagues at the home.


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Review from Mike B (Son of Resident) published on 17 December 2018
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father recently spent two and a half weeks in Merlewood Nursing Home which turned out to be the last two weeks of his life! While he was in there he was cared for in the best possible way. He was made very comfortable in every aspect. All the staff worked in a most professional and friendly manner
to both residents and visitors. I cannot thank everyone enough for all the help and support they have they given all the family.
If needed I would not hesitate in recommending Merlewood to anyone!

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Review from S B (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 October 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Wonderful environment and caring staff. Clean, food is very good, staff and residents look happy. Nice range of activities feels safe and secure. Entering/exiting through the front door is a little difficult when manoeuvring a wheelchair as the pathway from the door to the outside is not even, have
to lift the wheels of the wheelchair to exit. My mother seems happy and I am happy. The staff are compassionate, responsive and wonderful with the residents.

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Review from Chris G (Son of Resident) published on 22 October 2018
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot recommend Merlewood highly enough.
My father came for end of life care for the last two and a half weeks of his life and the staff could not have been nicer, more caring or professional. Their commitment to their patients was obvious and as a result, they made a very difficult time so much
easier. The setting and facilities are first rate but this would count for little without caring staff, which is in itself a tribute to excellent management.

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Review from W G (Respite Resident) published on 14 May 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I was in Merlewood for a short stay and I cannot speak highly enough of the staff who without exception were kind, considerate and cheerful and made my stay most enjoyable.

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Review from L R (Niece of Resident) published on 26 March 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My relative was moved from Cardiff to Merlewood to be close to where we live. When she arrived by ambulance, it was felt that she would be there for a couple of weeks, as she was so weak. Twenty months later, she passed away. She was SO WELL cared for by the amazing staff and she was so happy living
there. All of the staff are truly wonderful and we would have no hesitation in recommending Merlewood to anyone. Thank you all for the love and care given.

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Review from Helen K (Daughter of Resident) published on 17 January 2018
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Although my mother's stay at Merlewood was relatively short, we were extremely pleased with the level of care provided. Every member of staff encountered was so friendly and helpful and mum was looked after with such genuine care and kindness. Mum entered the home at the final stage of her life and
it's a shame she was unable to appreciate the activities and nurturing environment.

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Review from Mervyn G (Son of Resident) published on 13 December 2017
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We reluctantly placed my mother into Merlewood in November 2016 and without doubt, I had a guilt complex believing I was letting her down. Within 48 hours of her arriving at Merlewood I realised it was a great decision, she had constant company which she did not at home, the quality of food is excellent
and far better than we could arrange through carers and family effort. Staff encouraged her to join activities and very quickly she became part of the status quo at 91 years old and having suffered a stroke five years earlier. Staff are unbelievably caring and patient with the residents, I could never do their job and can only admire their commitment and the love they show for the older folks.


If anyone is having a problem and wrestling their conscience over placing a loved one in Merlewood, go and take a look, I believe you will like what you see. It turned out a great decision for my mother.


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Review from R S (Son of Resident) published on 10 November 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The care and the facilities at the home were both exceptional.
The staff were welcoming and friendly and made the whole respite experience an extremely gentle one.

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Review from S R (Respite Resident) published on 5 October 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I came in for respite care after a hip operation. I came out very rested - walking well. Just what I needed. Not much to do if you are able bodied - but to be expected really!

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Review from Ian D (Son of Resident) published on 22 September 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother became a resident at Merlewood on the 20th July 2017 for end of life care. She has now sadly passed away. My family and I consider ourselves lucky to have found such a wonderful nursing home. From the kind, caring staff on all levels looking after not only my mother but caring for us as well,
nothing was too much trouble.

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Review from Dilys K (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 May 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My Mother stayed at Merlewood for over four years. In that time, although she felt that it would take away her independence, she soon realised that the company and very comfortable surroundings were better than being alone. She was encouraged to take part in many activities, but if not feeling up to
participating would enjoy the chat with carers in the gardens. Everything was done that could be done to make her feel welcome and cared for.

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Review from J K (Resident) published on 3 May 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have been a resident for 6 years and I note that the cleanliness of all parts is immaculate and the standard of upkeep and decoration is very high. Lunch is served in the dining room and the food is varied - 3 main meals each day (fish, meat and vegetarian) and vegetables are served separately.
Meals may be served in your room if preferred.


The carers are kind and cheerful and do splendid work. Some have been here for many years.


Activities are varied - scrabble, crosswords, shopping trips, visits to places of beauty and interest.


The grounds are extensive and well maintained, and carers take residents round in wheelchairs on sunny days.


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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.653)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.653) out of 10 for Merlewood is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 23 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 21 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 4.653 for Merlewood is calculated as follows: ( (200 Excellents x 5) + (54 Goods x 4) + (19 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 274 Ratings = 4.653

  • 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 Merlewood is based on 21 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 54 registered maximum number of service users is 10.8, which has been reached with 21 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: 22 May 2019

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Good

Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.

View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (2)

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Meet the Team (1)

Debbie

Debbie Vellender

Job Title: General Manager

Joined: 2013

Debbie trained as a nurse at St George’s Hospital Tooting and Queen Mary’s Hospital Roehampton in the 90’s. This was followed with over 20 years nursing in the NHS, mainly within Medical and Elderly care, working her way to the position of Advanced (Clinical) Site Practitioner at a large local hospital. It was during this time that Debbie’s passion for care of the elderly blossomed, along with the personal fulfilment of getting to know people in her care, and their families.


Debbie moved into Social Care at Merlewood in 2013 as Deputy/Clinical Care Manager to use her skills and experience in a different aspect of elderly medical care. In 2019 Debbie became General Manager of the home. Debbie gets huge satisfaction from leading a team of like-minded compassionate individuals; Merlewood residents and staff have become a second family to her.