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Review from Stephanie W (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 31 August 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Very pleased. I visit almost every day and it is not a problem. Staff are very kind and caring, nothing is too much trouble. Beautiful building with ample facilities. My father in law is happy here and seems to have settled in well.

Reply from Louise Springett, Administrator at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for your review. We are delighted that your father-in-law has settled well into Valerian Court and we pride ourselves in offering the very best care and facilities. Your kind comments about our dedicated team will be shared with them.

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Review from Teresa G (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Valerian Court is an amazing place, I am so pleased we found this home for Mum.
From the very warm welcome when Mum moved in, to explaining every detail and all the activities and routines.
Mum settled very quickly, enjoying the lovely food and interacting with other residents. The staff are caring

and supportive. Mum has taken part in some activities and is comfortable with all aspects of the care.
The administration side is extremely efficient making every step easy for us to manage.

Reply from Kelly Walker, Regional Director at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are so pleased to hear how well your Mum has settled into Valerian Court.
The team works incredibly hard to ensure people receive the best care in the best environment.
We really appreciate your feedback.
I hope Mum continues to enjoy the services Valerian offers.

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Review from Tony P (Son of Resident) published on 22 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

My Mum has only been in Valerian Court for about three weeks but we are all so very happy with the fabulous environment she has moved into, the whole building and grounds are being maintained and cleaned to such a very high standard.
We are so happy how well my Mum is being cared for, all of the

staff (admin staff, nurses, carers, cleaners and maintenance staff) are so friendly, helpful and very caring.
We are so very happy and lucky that Mum is being cared for in Valerian Court and most importantly Mum is very happy.

Reply from Kelly Walker, Regional Director at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you very much for your review, we will ensure the staff receive your kind words. We are delighted to hear that your Mum has settled in and we hope Mum continues to be very happy at Valerian and enjoys all the facilities the home offers.
Again we really appreciate your review.

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Review from Sean T (Son of Resident) published on 3 August 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

My Mum has been at the care home for just under two weeks. She was initially in for four weeks for respite, after being in the hospital for just under three weeks. After a few days in the home, my Mum decided she would like to make the home her final place, this is due to the wonderful staff and management

being so kind and helpful. The home environment is like a home-from-home feeling. My Mum is getting to interact with other residents and is so happy, she loves the food! Nothing is too much trouble for the staff, they help my Mum when needed. She gets to take part in the activities they put on. I, as her son, cannot recommend this home highly enough.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Many thanks for your wonderful feedback, we are delighted that your mother has decided to become a permanent resident with us here. And we thank you for your support.

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Review from Clare H (Stepdaughter of Resident) published on 12 July 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

Valerian Court Care Home is a fantastic, caring environment with a dedicated staff that have the needs of their residents front and centre at all times.
The accommodation is excellent and of a very high standard, the home has exceeded our expectations in all areas.
We cannot thank the staff enough

for making my stepmother feel very welcome and ensuring her transfer from hospital to the home was seamless, caring and extremely supportive.
The manager and her dedicated staff are to be highly commended for their dedication in ensuring the health and overall well-being, alongside the stimulating environment they create for all their residents. Also, their excellent communication with relatives.
Thank you.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

We are very grateful for your feedback and encouraging words. We continue to aim to be a home of best practices and outstanding service. Many thanks.

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Review from Edwina S (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 27 June 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

What a wonderful, homely care home, the staff were approachable, caring and compassionate. My mother-in-law was cared for to a high standard, included in all the activities the care home provided. Friendly and homely is how I would describe being here, one big family.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for your feedback and we are glad that our values become the foundation of our best practice services.

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Review from Mary N (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 13 June 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

We celebrated my grandad’s 90th at his new home, Valerian Court Care Home. The staff were exceptional at hosting a memorable celebration. The room was perfect, they put happy birthday banners out and put up photos of my grandad. They also catered a delicious buffet for family and friends. It’s been

a long time since I’ve seen my grandad so happy. He’s been living in Valerian Court for nearly six months now and the whole family are so pleased that they chose this care home.
Thank you for creating a wonderful and safe space for him.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for your feedback as it is important to us to ensure that our residents continue to experience special moments like birthdays etc. and having a supporting family, like yourselves, makes each occasion even more memorable. Thank you for your support.

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Review from Philip A (Son of Resident) published on 6 June 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

This home is amazing, like a five-star hotel, it is so tranquil and calm, and the staff are amazingly patient and kind. The manager has walked the family and my dad through the process of leaving his own home to join the care home with such kindness and special attention. I never thought my dad would

adjust to a care home, but he has and is happy, the home arranges entertainment every day and has incredible quality food as well. His room is perfect, clean safe and very well decorated, his ensuite is a great size and all the safety devices.
The home takes care of his every need from doctors to prescriptions, it even has its own salon and movie theatre. It is like Doctor Who Tardis, it doesn't look like much outside, but once you get in the place is amazing.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for this wonderful review and feedback on the service. We are humbled. We are honoured to welcome your father and we will endeavour to make his stay memorable at Valerian Court Care Home.

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Review from Angus K (Son of Resident) published on 25 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

I am very pleased that me and my family made the right decision to place my mother at the Valerian Court Care Home in Didcot throughout March 2023 for respite care following her recent worrying and challenging operation at her elderly age of 84.
It is a recently built care home, much maintained and

cleaned to a very high standard. We also found it to have excellent facilities which have been thought out for modern day living, amenities and various special needs.
Within the very first instance on approach and communication, the management and staff were very friendly and cooperative throughout. They supported my mother's emotional and physical needs during the entire length of her stay. And also created a very special moment of attention while celebrating her 85th birthday.
I would recommend the Valerian Care Home to others that require a trusted, friendly and reliable service with peace of mind.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

We would like to thank you for your trust in our service and we hope we continue growing and improving in all aspects of our care to ensure the best support and care for our residents.

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Review from B J (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 24 April 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Our mum has been in Valerian Court Care Home for several weeks now and we are extremely pleased with the care and love she is receiving. Valerian has recently opened in Didcot and the staff seem genuinely keen to create a home-from-home atmosphere and environment. What could have been unsettling and

disturbing for our mum has proved to be a good, smooth and uneventful transition for someone elderly and with dementia. Details seem important and the little things, as well as the bigger issues, are handled with discretion and in a dignified manner.
The only issue we feel could be improved upon is the communication between family and staff regarding our mum's details. When we share personal needs and hygiene issues with individual staff members on duty it's well received and action is taken or said to be taken. But the channels for passing this information from one shift to another aren't clear and it can lead to oversight and inconsistencies in personal care routines. If these things were joined up and shared amongst all relevant staff we would feel that our mum was safer and it would help if further supporting her now, new home. Hopefully, this is just a reflection of the newness of the home and this will be addressed in time.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for the constructive feedback as it helps us to focus on areas where improvement is required. We will urgently look into the process to ensure this is immediately addressed and hopefully improve your experience of the service overall. We also thank you for your kind understanding in regard to the matter.

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Review from Ian S (Brother-in-law of Resident) published on 20 April 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

We visited the home prior to the admission of our relative. The general finish in all the areas was very good. All our questions regarding care, welfare, activities, nursing, management and costs were answered fully. The management made the necessary assessment and home/hospital visits had a positive

outcome. On admission to the home, every member of the team did their best to make settling in a pleasure. In my opinion, a care home of quality.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Many thanks for your feedback and we are grateful for the support you also give to your relative and advising and/or communicating any matters that ensure the optimum comfort for the resident.

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Review from R T (Brother-in-law of Resident) published on 28 March 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Very positive experiences during fairly regular visits to this excellent care home. The staff have the residents' requirements at heart and cannot do enough to ensure their comfort. The facilities are first-class too.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you very much for your feedback. We value that our visitors have a positive experience during their visits. We endeavour to ensure our care is person-centred and compassionate.

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Review from M P (Friend of Resident) published on 9 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

My husband and I were invited to celebrate Burns Night with our deaf friend who lives at Valerian Court Care Home. A wonderful evening attended by residents and their friends and family. The chef provided a delightful supper (with choices) and the Haggis was piped into the dining room by a piper in

full uniform to the delight of all. There was a recital of poetry by staff and guests.
A great deal of thought had been given to the planning of this fantastic social event. We enjoyed a wonderful evening with our friend and his family in a delightful setting. We received a warm welcome from staff into this amazing care facility. Well done and thanks!

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

We are so grateful for your wonderful feedback and your continued support for the home. We would like to ensure that VCC is a place that will make all friends and families feel welcomed. We look forward to seeing you again.

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Review from C K (Daughter of Resident) published on 2 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

Valerian Court Care Home put on a fantastic, enjoyable evening for Burns Night. We had a delicious meal of haggis, neeps and tatties followed by pudding of cranachan. The host played the bagpipes and recited poetry and told some very funny riddles. The audience also got involved. Thank you to all the

staff.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

We are so grateful for your support with our home's activities and celebrations. We are glad you enjoyed the evening as much as we did. We look forward to welcoming you to many more events that will take place in the home.

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Review from Karen B (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience

My father enjoyed his time here for a rest. He joined in the activities provided by the team which he enjoyed immensely. He said he felt well provided for and liked the attention he was paid as well as his privacy. I loved the security of the home with restricted access via the front door. Yet freedom

for friends and relatives to visit any time of day. He would love to stay again later in the year.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

It is always a pleasure to know that our resident enjoyed his time during his stay with us. We are very glad his family also enjoyed their visits. We thank you for your feedback and the team at Valerian Court Care Home look forward to welcoming you all back.

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Review from Neale M (Son of Resident) published on 9 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

I'm delighted to express my total satisfaction with my mother's experience of becoming a resident at Valerian Court Didcot. I have been struck from the very first visit by the professionalism, competence and care shown to my mother. The home itself is impressive in decor and furnishings with all staff

being totally welcoming and fully committed to providing excellence.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for your feedback and your encouraging comments that have been passed to the whole team.

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Review from Claire A (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience

I cannot rate Valerian Court highly enough. Everything about it is superb and a very anxious elderly mother with quite significant care needs is now as happy as Larry, which says it all.
The facilities are 5* and the staff feel like family already. Mum loves her food, which is outstanding.
I couldn't

be happier for mum, but also selfishly for myself as I know she's in the best place with the best care.

Reply from Sonia Kasese, Manager at Valerian Court Care Home

Thank you for the feedback and confidence in our service. We are delighted that both you and your mother have had a positive experience.

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Meet the Team (19)

Andrei Joanta

Job Title: Registered Manager

Joined: 2024

Andrei is a registered nurse with experience in hospitals and nursing homes. He has been managing care homes for the last 4 years and is excited to have joined Valerian Court Care Home. His philosophy is that care is not a job but a mission where we all come together to support our loved ones. He believes we continuously learn every day with one goal in mind: to create a home away from home for our residents.

He is honoured that, together with his team they can be part of this beautiful extended family.

Kathy Francis

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2023

Kathy is our Deputy Manager here at Valerian Court and has been a Registered Nurse within the NHS for more than 11 years. She initially specialised in renal care before becoming Ward Sister and later Matron of Acute General Medicine wards. Prior to qualifying as a nurse Kathy worked in a care home and enjoys delivering person-centred care once more. Kathy has a wealth of knowledge and experience in nursing and leadership and is excited to be part of the team at Valerian Court.

Keith Hutchinson

Job Title: Maintenance Manager

Joined: 2023

Keith joins our team at Valerian Court as Maintenance Manager.

He is a retired Police Officer, having worked with Thames Valley Police for over 30 years. Keith uses his organisational and management skills to help out around the home. He strives to provide the best support to our residents and to make sure that the home continues to be well-maintained and fit for purpose.

Freya Selwood

Job Title: Receptionist

Freya takes pride in being the first to greet everybody who comes through our doors with a smiling face. Being surrounded by all of our lovely staff and residents makes her day.

Michael Robson

Job Title: Unit Manager

Michael has 15+ years of experience in healthcare in all different settings including forensic mental health, learning disabilities and community care. Michael has worked his way up from support worker to senior and then attended university and qualified as a nurse associate. Michael is one of our Unit Managers, he has a passion for giving the residents the best care and continuing to expand his experience and knowledge.

Brian Arrowsmith

Job Title: Unit Manager

Brian has a wealth of experience in the care industry both in care home settings and the local community. He loves to help people and to ensure our lovely residents are always safe and well.

Comfort Konamah

Job Title: Team Leader

Comfort is a registered general and critical care nurse from Ghana with 16 years experience of working in healthcare.

She has recently been promoted to Team Leader and we look forward to working together as she continues to develop her healthcare career in the UK.

Anna Sharp

Job Title: Registered Nurse

Joined: 2023

Anna is an experienced Nurse who has a background in critical care, having worked in Intensive Care for 12 years.

She became part of the team here at Valerian Court to continue her passion for nursing and commitment to ensuring all residents receive the best care.

Rachel Manu

Job Title: Registered Nurse

Joined: 2023

Rachel joined Valerian Court Care Home after qualifying as a Registered Nurse in Ghana. Rachel is committed to making residents comfortable during their care.

Rachel has recently gained her NMC pin and is now a Registered Nurse. She is passionate, a good team player and always goes above and beyond.

Clare Milne

Job Title: Care Assistant

Clare enjoys providing first-class care to our residents, engaging with them and making them happy during all hours of the day.

Celestina Enerch

Job Title: Care Assistant

Joined: 2022

Having worked in hospitality for most of her career and wanting a change, Celestina saw similarities within the Care sector. Celestina has been working as a Care Assistant in care homes for three years and is passionate about providing excellent person-centred care and doing everything she can to ensure residents are happy.

Nisha Karki

Job Title: Care Assistant

Joined: 2022

Nisha has joined our team here at Valerian Court as a Care Assistant and is happy to be learning and gaining experience every day. She looks forward to greeting the residents and supporting and assisting them throughout the day.

Riki Das

Job Title: Activities Coordinator

Joined: 2023

Riki has been working at Valerian Court Care Home for approximately one year. Riki was originally employed as a carer and moved to support the Activities Team earlier this year and is thoroughly enjoying her new role. She is vibrant and energetic and shows the same enthusiasm whether supporting with group activities or one-to-one sessions.

Eliza Jacobs

Job Title: Receptionist

Joined: 2022

Eliza has 20 years of experience working in various roles within the NHS and most recently as a GP receptionist. She is a kind and caring person who enjoys talking and listening to the older generations’ life stories and is looking forward to bringing a smile to the residents’ next chapter in life.

Kim Thomas

Job Title: Receptionist

Joined: 2022

Kim is one of the receptionists at Valerian Court and will often be one of the first people you come into contact with whether it be in person or by phone. Being local to the home

She has great local knowledge to be able to assist residents and relatives alike.

Kelly Roberts

Job Title: Hairdresser

Joined: 2022

Kelly is a fully qualified hairdresser having worked in the hair industry for over 15 years. She loves her job and the uplift it provides whether it be a trim, blow dry or something new.

Kelly cannot wait to meet all the residents and provide a pampering service.

Dipa Karki

Job Title: Head Housekeeper

Dipa Karki is a dedicated housekeeper at Valerian Court Care Home, ensuring a clean and welcoming space for residents. She is grateful for the opportunity to care for them and takes pride in her work.

Gabriel Franguta

Job Title: Head Chef

Gabriel is a proactive and trusted professional with over 9 years of chef experience. He is looking forward to providing excellent home-cooked food using the finest quality ingredients.

Oleksandra Yablonska

Job Title: Second Chef

Joined: 2023

Oleksandra is originally from Skadovsk, Ukraine and has extensive experience working as a chef before joining our team in November 2023 as our second chef.

Valerian Court Care Home

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