Aspen Grange

Coldnailhurst Avenue, Braintree CM7 5PY
Submit a Review
9.8 94 Reviews
  • Aspen Grange, Braintree
Welcome to Aspen Grange, a purpose-built haven designed to provide exceptional care and support across two spacious floors. The home offers a range of services including residential, nursing, and dementia care, delivered by a highly skilled team dedicated to enhancing the lives of residents.

At Aspen Grange, the team has undergone thorough dementia-specific training and is committed to providing specialised care that meets the unique needs of individuals living with dementia.

The team also understands that transitioning into residential care can be a significant adjustment, which is why they take extra care to ensure residents feel at home from the moment they arrive. Residents are encouraged to choose their preferred room and personalise it with belongings from home, creating their own personal haven within the Aspen Grange community.

Residents enjoy a diverse and exciting program of activities aimed at promoting both physical and mental well-being. From gardening and film screenings to musical entertainment, movement classes, massages, and manicures, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Aspen Grange.

The team invites you to visit Aspen Grange and see the warmth and professionalism of the team and how they're dedicated to providing compassionate care in a welcoming and homely environment.

Show Aspen Grange on the Map

Care Provided by Aspen Grange

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 49 Service Users
  • Privately Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Challenging Behaviour/Psychosis
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Speech Impairment
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • Day Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care

Good to Know

  • Owner
  • Opal Care Homes Ltd
  • Person in charge
  • Sharon Thompson (Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (49)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (48)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Number of floors: 2

Funding & Fees Guide for Aspen Grange

  • Weekly Charges per Person
    • Self-Funded Nursing Care from £1,000
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Aspen Grange to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

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

  • Aspen Grange Care Home is thrilled to welcome visitors. Visitors encouraged to visit loved ones dedicated team members always available to greet them with a warm welcome.


  • Parking

  • Aspen Grange Care Home understands that convenience is key when visiting loved ones, which is why parking is hassle-free, offering on-site parking, completely free of charge.


Aspen Grange Reviews (94)

Total of 94, showing 21-40
9.8

Aspen Grange has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.815) out of 10, based on 25 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Aspen Grange has 94 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 59
  • 33
  • 2
  • 0
  • 0

Date Published

94
4
15
25
69

Review from Joseph R (Son of Resident) published on 30 January 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The friendliest, most helpful, kindest care staff I have encountered during my father's time in care homes. Very accommodating with all requests.
My father always had a smile on his face when living here and never complained to me once about any of the carers or facilities (which is very unlike him).

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you so much for your very kind words, it was a pleasure to care for him if only for a short period of time.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Daniel C (Son of Resident) published on 26 July 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum had mental health needs but not dementia. My mum became a resident in early 2020 and became settled quickly. I visited often and can safely say she was well looked after. The staff went above and beyond. They were kind and did the little things for Mum which meant a lot to her and us as a family.
The main thing as a family member is to leave your relative knowing they are safe. My mum was just that.
My mum sadly past recently and was in palliative care, this was a hard time for myself and close family, but the staff made sure we spent the time with her easily. I had a bed and could sleep next to Mum and bought extra things into the room to make her last weeks and days more comfortable. Whatever we needed, they helped. This goes a long way. So my review is based on the home, staff and general care, which is top-notch. The garden is due to be redone soon as it does need an update and once that’s done it will be even better for your loved ones to spend time there. Great home.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you, it was a pleasure caring for Mum, she was a character and kept us all amused, she will be sadly missed by everyone at the home, your kind words mean a lot. Thank you.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Julia R (Sister of Resident) published on 22 July 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My family and I were so happy that my sister was cared for in Aspen Grange, where she really felt at home. My sister was always cared for with dignity and respect. All the staff are kind, helpful and a joy to be around. They are always good-humoured and ready to help with anything. It feels like a family.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you so much for this lovely review, your sister was a big part of the Aspen Grange family and will be truly missed.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from H M (Niece of Resident) published on 28 May 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The care seems very good and my relative is well looked after and thoroughly enjoys the meals. There are activities provided, although my particular relation finds it difficult to contribute and interact.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for this review, we appreciate your kind words.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Mary B (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 April 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

As a family, we are extremely happy with the care and support our relative is receiving from the staff at Aspen Grange. Our relative is being well looked after; clean, tidy, safe and warm. Eating and drinking really well. Our relative is able to wander around the home in a safe environment, he enjoys
the church service, music and other activities within the home. Food is presented well.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for your kind words and positive review, we are so pleased you are happy and that your relative has settled well.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from S T (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 February 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father was a resident at Aspen Grange for 18 months before he recently passed away. I am incredibly grateful to the lovely caring staff for their kindness and compassion during the last week of my father's life. Nothing seemed too much trouble and I will remember their understanding and sympathy
at this sad time. I will miss visiting Dad and seeing you all, but please accept my sincere thanks for all you did for him and the support you gave us as a family.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for this review and your kind words, thank you for choosing Aspen Grange for a home for your Father.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Daniel C (Son of Resident) published on 19 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been a resident of Aspen Grange for almost two years, and in that time she has received high-quality care. The care home is extremely well run, with caring staff who are always professional. My mother is very settled and comfortable. My mother suffers with dementia, so we were careful
in terms of placing her in an establishment that was able to cater for these types of needs. The team at Aspen Grange are always helpful and caring and run a number of activities to help the residents get involved. I wouldn't hesitate recommending Aspen Grange to anyone looking to place a loved one in such an environment.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for the review, it is lovely to hear such kind words and appreciation.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from V H (Wife of Resident) published on 10 May 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5

Satisfactory when we have been allowed to visit. My husband seems cared for well and nursed through a second bout of covid. Accommodation always clean in the visiting areas and his room.

Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Jo R (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 March 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

They look after you and keep you up to date.

Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Steven D (Son of Resident) published on 31 January 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cared for my mum who was diagnosed with mixed Dementia in 2016 and went into Aspen Grange in March 2021 until with great sadness we lost her on the 2nd Oct 2021. The kindness and compassion shown from all members of staff working at Aspen Grange was professional and faultless and I wouldn't hesitate
in recommending them to anyone I come across. Facilities are first class and the activities and entertainment provided were excellent. The final two weeks before we lost my mum were the hardest of my life and I miss her every day. I feel reassured by the fact that she was cared for with compassion and kindness.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you so much for your lovely review, it was a great pleasure to look after Mum.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from C A (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 September 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Really friendly, helpful staff. Listened to everything we told them. They make us feel really welcome. My mum is looked after really well. Her room is clean and tidy. They keep us informed on any matters regarding mum. The most important thing is my mum is happy and getting the best care.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you so much for the lovely review, it is a pleasure to look after mum at Aspen Grange.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from D W (Brother of Resident) published on 17 August 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are very happy with the way my brother has settled in. His care is extremely professional and very sympathetic kindly and understanding. Everyone is helpful, gentle and encouraging. All his needs are being met. We are regularly kept informed of his needs and well-being and we are very satisfied with
his care.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for your kind words and the lovely review.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Lynne C (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 June 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff are very helpful and go out of their ways to help residents, they go above and beyond for the residents.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you for your review Lynne, it is lovely to see you back in the home again.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Keith D (Friend of Resident) published on 2 June 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent care of the residents. Everyone was most polite and helpful.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for the lovely review Keith, I am glad you are happy with the care provided.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from D P (Son of Resident) published on 27 May 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Professional but friendly staff provided excellent care for my mum. Great communication from the management team.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much for this review and your kind words.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from M B (Son of Resident) published on 19 April 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Friendly staff. Good communication and levels of care. Nice and clean facilities. Staff very empathetic and sympathetic. Has a homely feel.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you for taking the time to complete a lovely review for us.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Veronica S (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 April 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very happy with the care and support my mum receives.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you for very much for taking the time to complete a lovely review.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Michael F (Husband of Resident) published on 12 April 2021
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Staff are excellent, and my wife seems very happy here.

Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Linda (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 March 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

It’s never easy when a loved one has to go into care, but Aspen Grange has been very caring and professional, especially as this past year with the Covid pandemic has been very difficult. Every effort has been made to keep my brother and me in contact with our dad, by video phone calls - thank you
to one member of staff in particular. Aspen Grange has managed the lockdown extremely well, and we are very grateful to them, knowing that they were taking all the necessary safety precautions. Dad’s behaviour can be very challenging and he can get upset quite easily, but he is treated with patience and understanding. While dad has his freedom to walk when he can, security is also excellent and very re-assuring. Thank you to all management and staff.

Reply from Sharon Thompson, Home Manager at Aspen Grange

Thank you very much Linda for writing this lovely review.


Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Review from Sue (Great-Niece of Resident) published on 12 February 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My Great Uncle was a resident for 3 years. Before going into care he lived in the community his behaviour became unsettled and he would be found wandering late at night. He eventually was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and it was decided he was unsafe in the community. Aspen Grange became his home and although
he liked his own company he would sometimes join in with activities. The staff learned how to manage his moods and left him settled in his room when he wanted quiet time and encouraged him out when he was ready for company. He became more unsettled and eventually, the home recommended he move to the second floor as he could have more peace and quiet. Again on good days, he came downstairs on bad he had the quiet space he needed. The home ensured he remained safe and happy through his final years. After he passed away I went through photos from before he went into care and whilst in care. His weight had improved and he looked so relaxed and settled in the photos taken in the home.

Facilities

Care / Support

Cleanliness

Treated with Dignity

Food & Drink

Staff

Activities

Management

Safety / Security

Rooms

Value for Money

Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.815)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.815) out of 10 for Aspen Grange 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 25 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 25 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 4.815 for Aspen Grange is calculated as follows: ( (238 Excellents x 5) + (54 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 292 Ratings = 4.815

  • 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 Aspen Grange is based on 25 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 49 registered maximum number of service users is 9.8, which has been reached with 25 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: 15 Apr 2023

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 (0)

Loading

Loading

Loading

Loading

Loading

Loading

Loading events

Meet the Team (1)

Sharon

Sharon Thompson

Job Title: Care Home Manager

I joined Aspen Grange as Manager at the end of January 2020. Having worked in the care sector for over 20 years, I have extensive experience as the registered manager of three previous care homes. These include residential and nursing settings, including supporting people living with dementia.


I have personal experience of looking after a family member with dementia, so I understand the impacts of the condition from both sides. My journey in care began as a care assistant 21 years ago, working my way to Home Manager, having achieved my Registered Manager award.


I am a firm believer in person-centred care to achieve a good quality of life for our residents. With the right care and environment, you can truly make a positive change in residents’ lives. I’m looking forward to working with my team and being part of the Aspen Grange Family.