Orchard House Residential Care Home

191 High Street, Sawston, Cambridge CB22 3HJ
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9.7 49 Reviews
  • Orchard House Residential Care Home, Cambridge
With a devoted manager who has been at Orchard House for over 20 years, and many of the team having been there for 10 plus years, the home has a warm, family feel the moment you walk through the door.   

Providing residential and dementia care, the team also offer respite care breaks, which can be booked in advance, ideal for carers who need to plan a short break themselves, knowing their loved one is in safe hands.

The team are passionate about enriching the lives of their residents, who have a very active role to play in how their home is run. The home’s resident ambassador is involved in recruiting new staff, chairs residents' meetings and provides residents' feedback to the team.

The home is thriving, with so many activities to enjoy, from baking and pamper sessions, to music afternoons - the home even has its own stick drumming group! There are also crafts, games and gentle exercise sessions, and weekly visits from a mobile hairdresser, for appointments in the home’s salon.

This summer the residents have been enjoying growing their own vegetables, which the chef has used in the kitchens, where nutritious, home-cooked meals are prepared every day. From roast dinners to lighter bites like home-made soups and freshly baked cakes for afternoon tea. The home’s chef also bakes stunning cakes for residents' birthdays and special celebrations, as well as being a dab hand at pastries.

The residents also enjoy regular visits from local school children, a youth band and cockapoo Bella, who visits daily.

And there are trips out into the local community, from the nearby cinema to village coffee mornings, where residents can stay connected. And of course, family and friends are welcome at any time.

The home also has a private family and friends Facebook group, so loved ones can see what the residents have been enjoying doing, even if they can’t be there in person each day.

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Care Provided by Orchard House Residential Care Home

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 35 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Other Care Provided
  • Own GP if required

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Tina Jones (Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (35)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (6)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No

Funding & Fees Guide for Orchard House Residential Care Home

  • 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 £1,257
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,257

  • Our weekly fees are individual to each of our residents and are subject to a pre-admission assessment, which is required to understand the level of care and support needed. Our 2025 weekly care fees for residential care start from £1257 but may be in the region of 30% more*. This depends on your care needs and the type of bedroom that is right for you, from our standard rooms through to our premium bedroom options.


    *If you require more specialist care such as 1-2-1 support, your weekly fee could be higher.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Orchard House Residential Care Home to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access

Orchard House Residential Care Home Reviews (49)

Total of 49, showing 1-20
9.7

Orchard House Residential Care Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.675) out of 10, based on 18 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Orchard House Residential Care Home has 49 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Review from Lesley F (Daughter of Resident) published on 13 January 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I found this care home exceptionally good. My mother was in for 14 months, she had the best care in all her needs at the age of 102, she was also partially deaf and blind. The staff were exceptionally good in catering to all her needs medically, keeping her clean. Also food was done to her special needs.
I was also happy with the care and needs and I also knew she was in safe hands 24/7 when I left her. I would highly recommend this care home. Right to the end she exceptionally looked after.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. The team will be touched to read your comments and very proud to have had the privilege of caring for your mother at Orchard House. We're so glad to hear that you felt so confident in the care and attention she received. Your recommendation and kind words mean so much, thank you.


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Review from T G (Sister of Resident) published on 9 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

In spite of living in an extra care flat with carers on call, my sister was becoming increasingly stressed at coping by herself. After a week's trial in Orchard House, where I saw her smiling for the first time in months, she moved in permanently at the end of October. The care staff have been so kind
and caring towards her, she still doesn't smile very much but she says she is so glad that she moved in,
I am glad too. I can only visit her once a week and it is good to know that she is always being looked after. Her room is always cosy and clean, the meals always look and smell delicious and all members of staff (carers, office staff, kitchen staff, housekeeping, even the maintenance man) really care about all the residents and are unfailingly kind, caring and professional.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt review. We're so pleased to hear that your sister has settled in well at Orchard House and that she's so happy about her decision to move in permanently following her initial respite care stay. It's wonderful to know that you've noticed the kindness and professionalism of our entire team, who will be delighted to read your kind words. We deeply appreciate your feedback, thank you.


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Review from Jacqueline H (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother was admitted with cognitive impairment in July 2024. She settled down very quickly with the aid of the very attentive and caring staff. I have visited on many occasions unexpectedly, to find the care home very clean, smelling fresh and I was always accompanied by a member of the staff who
knew my mum well. A verbal progress report has always been given. My last visit I may say, I have not seen my mum look so happy, well-fed, clean, smelling fresh and content. Please put me there if I get dementia!

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for your heartfelt review for Orchard House. We're so pleased to hear how well your mother has settled in and how happy and content she feels. Your kind words will mean so much to the team and we'll be sure to pass them on. Your feedback is truly appreciated, thank you.


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Review from Jane M (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum is very stubborn and set in her ways and staff worked really hard to settle her into Orchard House Residential Care Home, involving her in any decisions. The home is clean and well looked after, the staff are great, friendly and professional. The food is good she says. I am confident that her needs
are well taken care of at Orchard House.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We're thrilled to hear that Orchard House has provided such a welcoming and supportive environment for your mum. We truly appreciate your confidence in our team, who will be delighted to read your comments.


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Review from Peter E (Husband of Resident) published on 2 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My wife went into care in September, she had stopped eating due to Alzheimer's and had lost a lot of weight. Since going in she has started to eat and has put on some weight, she has settled in quite quickly and is now quite happy and contented all thanks to the amazing care team that looks after her.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for sharing such wonderful feedback for our team at Orchard House. We're so glad to hear that your wife is so happy and content and enjoying the home-cooked meals. The dedication of the amazing care team truly makes a difference. Thank you for your kind words.


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Review from Hilary P (Power of Attorney of Resident) published on 2 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

All seems fine. Resident is settling in. She is sometimes a little frustrated by the (small) size of her room, she would like more room for books and paperwork. She is clearly well-cared for and well-fed. The staff are lovely.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for your feedback for our team at Orchard House. It's wonderful to hear that your loved one is settling in and is so well cared for. Your kind words about the staff are truly appreciated and they will be delighted to read your comments. We want to assure you that residents are always welcome to discuss swapping bedrooms and we are here to support her in making any adjustments she feels would enhance her comfort.


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Review from V N (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My father has been here for over 3 years. He is living with dementia and has no idea where he is. I think his health needs are met well. The staff are great with his banter and strange sense of humour - something he has always enjoyed. He says the food is good - he has a cooked breakfast every day (I
didn't believe him when he told me but he does!). The relationship between the home and the medical professionals is great. There has not been an activities lead for some time and my father rarely leaves his room - he has never been a joiner in person however I do feel activity for him is a bit lacking. The staff do the best they can with it.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review for Orchard House and for your kind words about the team, we will be sure to pass them on. The chef is very happy to prepare home-cooked breakfasts every day and we are pleased to hear how much your father enjoys this. Your feedback regarding the activities is greatly appreciated and we are pleased to tell you that we have a new activities coordinator starting at the home next month who will be a great asset to the team.


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Review from Lynda T (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has lived at Orchard House for nearly a year. Initially, I was very worried about how he would take to living there but I needn't have worried. All of the staff know his name and they always have time to speak to him even though they don't get much back in return. His room is always kept clean
and receives medical attention when needed. We are always kept informed of any problems or medical interventions. There is always someone to speak to about any worries and these are acted upon. It would be nice if they had something more to keep them occupied.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for your review for Orchard House. It's our pleasure to care for your father, we're so pleased to hear that we've eased your initial worries. Your feedback about providing more activities for residents is extremely valuable and we are delighted to tell you that we have a new activities co-ordinator starting at the home in September. Thank you so much for your feedback and kind words about our home and staff.


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Review from Nigel P (Son of Resident) published on 9 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My mother has been a resident for over four years now and her physical well-being has improved greatly from the care she is receiving at Orchard House Residential Care Home although, at 96 years of age, dementia and anxiety affect the way she views her situation. Despite the fact that she can be very
difficult at times, the staff have always appeared to be kind and committed in their attitude and to have her best interests at heart. Overall, I have no doubt that she will receive a good standard of care and this gives her family in the outside world a great degree of comfort.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for sharing your experience. It's heartening to hear that your mother's physical well-being has improved during her time at Orchard House. We're glad that our team's kindness and commitment have provided comfort to both your mother and your family and your feedback is greatly appreciated.


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Review from Ros S (Niece of Resident) published on 9 August 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My 91-year-old uncle went to Orchard House for two weeks of respite in March and is still there! He is very well looked after. The food is very good. The staff are friendly, kind and helpful and nothing is too much trouble. We are very happy with my uncle's care and would recommend Orchard House without
hesitation.

Reply from Kate Yates, Communications and Content Specialist at Orchard House Residential Care Home

Thank you for sharing your uncle's experience at Orchard House. We're delighted to hear that he's received such excellent care during his extended stay. Your kind words about our staff, food, and overall care mean a lot to us and we appreciate your recommendation.


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Review from Lesley F (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 January 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have found the staff all very caring, understanding and very patient. Very good medical attention when needed. The room is always clean. My mother is always washed and bath regularly. The lady in administration is always so helpful if you have any questions. Always - the rest of the staff never found
it too much trouble if you ask them for anything. The only that I think is needed is all the rooms need updating with their own toilet suite - my mother has to use a commode in her room because she can't see or hear properly to find the toilet, yes, the carer would take her if she calls them. She is 101 years old and still likes a little independence. Own toilets and a little sink would be great in all rooms. Not possible in the room my mum is in far too small.

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Review from Keith S (Son of Resident) published on 21 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A very stable care environment, focussed on the comfort, health and wellbeing of residents. Regular activities, tasty meals and a nice cup of tea are all great features. Always tidy, with plenty of genuinely caring staff and a real buzz about the place in the daytime. Always kept informed, Mum is happy
and I have peace of mind.

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Review from Charles E (Brother of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am really grateful to those who helped me find a care home for my sister 18 months ago!


After a serious fall, and time in hospital, it was no longer considered safe for her to live alone and the staff and facilities at Orchard House Residential Care Home have provided all the care she now needs

in her late 80s.


My monthly visits involve a round trip of more than 200 miles - so I am particularly grateful that she is happy in a residential care facility that I have confidence in and that allows me to live without constantly worrying about my sister and her needs!


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Review from Gillian H (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been a resident since January, following a spell in hospital, after which she could not return to independent living.


The staff are wonderful, treating each resident with care and affection and encouraging them to socialise whilst respecting their choices. Activities are scheduled

during the week, though sadly not at weekends, and the residents are frequently taken into the gardens when weather allows. Mum is encouraged to join in and usually enjoys the activities.


Mum has dementia and reduced mobility, with no safety awareness. I'm happy to say that the team make every effort to monitor her movements with floor alarms and to ensure her safety as much as possible.


The food is very good, with a main meal at lunchtime and a lighter supper, with alternatives available on request, though staff do not have the time to sit and coax. Many of the rooms are small, but we were fortunate that one of the lovely larger ensuite rooms became available soon after Mum moved in.


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Review from C B (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother has been at Orchard House Residential Care Home since August 2020. All the staff I meet while visiting seem very caring, friendly and patient and, although my mother has dementia (and therefore doesn't remember much), she often says that the staff are all very nice and she is well looked after.
The home is clean and the food looks good. As much as her condition allows, my mother seems to be comfortable and happy living at Orchard House.

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Review from Colin R (Husband of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My wife has been there for only just over a month, but my first impressions are very favourable, particularly when compared to her previous situation. I find the caring staff very friendly and cooperative.

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Review from Lawrence F (Nephew of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Very happy with the service Orchard House provides for my uncle.
The staff are very helpful and keep me up to date on his care needs and general health.
The home has a very nice atmosphere and always seems to cater for all needs with special events, and alike, to keep residents occupied.

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Review from Susanna R (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum got a placement here to be closer to me when it became apparent that she could no longer cope at home with uncertain and intermittent care going in. We were very lucky to get a place at Orchard House Residential Care Home. It's an absolutely brilliant place and she settled in really quickly.
All the staff have been lovely.

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Review from Peter W (Son of Resident) published on 11 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Orchard House is an excellent care home with friendly and professional staff, which gives me peace of mind knowing that my elderly mother is well cared for.
I would highly recommend this care home to anyone looking for residential care.

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Review from Allison S (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 11 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother-in-law has been a resident since May 2022. She is extremely well looked after and seems very happy being there. She joins in with so many activities, but unfortunately, due to her dementia, she doesn't remember any of them afterwards. However, the most important thing for us is that she is
enjoying life. The staff take very good care of her, and we have no worries at all about her being here.

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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.675)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.675) out of 10 for Orchard House Residential Care Home 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 18 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 18 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 4.675 for Orchard House Residential Care Home is calculated as follows: ( (144 Excellents x 5) + (53 Goods x 4) + (5 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 203 Ratings = 4.675

  • 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 Orchard House Residential Care Home is based on 18 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 35 registered maximum number of service users is 7, which has been reached with 18 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: 12 Jan 2018

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)

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Meet the Team (3)

Tina

Tina Jones

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2005

I joined Orchard House in 2005 to gain experience after completing my Psychology BSc (Hons) degree. However, I quickly fell in love with the home, its residents, and our incredible team. What was meant to be temporary turned into a fulfilling career.
Over the years, I’ve grown through various roles, deepening my passion for person-centred care. In 2011, I became Home Manager leading our dedicated team with
compassion and commitment.
At Orchard House, we’re more than just a care home. We provide exceptional care
while enriching residents’ lives, creating a warm, homely environment with a team
that feels like family.
Many of our staff have been with us for years, fostering a sense of stability and belonging for both residents and colleagues.
I am passionate about ensuring that Orchard House remains a place where we
support residents to feel valued, safe and truly at home.


Megan

Megan Baker

Job Title: Team Leader

Joined: 2015

Enjoys time with residents, enjoy listening to the stories of what they did for work and talking about their lives.


Rebecca

Rebecca Balls

Job Title: Team Leader

Joined: 2016

I love looking after our residents, chatting with them and making them happy comfortable and safe.


Frequently Asked Questions about Orchard House Residential Care Home

What types of Care is Orchard House Residential Care Home registered for?

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

What additional types of Care does Orchard House Residential Care Home provide?

Own GP if required is an additional type of care provided.

How many Rooms does Orchard House Residential Care Home have?

There are 35 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Orchard House Residential Care Home?

Own Furniture if required, Close to Local shops, Near Public 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 Orchard House Residential Care Home to the centre of Cambridge?

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