Reviews for Friston House Care Home

"The home is welcoming, friendly and caring. Mum is receiving the very best care and appears to be very happy. She enjoys the food and loves the interaction with the staff. As a family, we have found the staff to be very caring and accommodating especially three members of staff who always go above and beyond. One is very much missed on the ward by all our family but especially Mum."

C C
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.33 out of 5

"Well, Mum transferred into Friston House on Tuesday, (it's now Thursday) from another care home in the area. The staff have been so friendly, in particular the Nurse. There have been others but I didn't catch your names, sorry. Mum has been moved because she now requires nursing care for advancing Dementia and part of our worries is her declining weight and refusal to eat sometimes. Staff were lovely and took time to listen to the things we thought Mum might like, (Mum no longer has speech so couldn't answer for herself). Within 5 minutes a whole range of food was bought in on a tray! Bright, airy and very clean room and a comfy mattress on the bed. When I spoke with staff on Wednesday she had already been in contact with Mum's GP and received her full medical history. Overall, very organised, efficient and knowledgeable. Staff seem happy and I think Mum will be happy here too."

Anne-Marie H
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.08 out of 5

"I returned home stronger than I went in. Generally speaking, the food menu was suitable but often the food offered differed from that published for the meal. The staff, especially the nurses, are friendly and helpful though I felt that some of the care workers were unsympathetic. Activities were suitably planned though card games eg cribbage or chess would have been welcome. Beds were not made every day and rooms were not cleaned every day."

M F
carehome.co.uk rating: 3.58 out of 5

"I moved my mum to Friston House in Rochester back in June 2021 as her previous care home were unable to care for her due to her decline with her dementia. Since she has moved there she has improved so much as all of the staff are absolutely amazing. They have sorted out her medication which has done wonders for her wellbeing. Before she would not wash her hair, get dressed or shower, and now they have built up so much trust and care that she showers, washes her hair and gets dressed every day. She is also eating really well as the food is to a very high standard, and she has lots of tea throughout the day with the occasional cake and biscuits, which she loves. When I was able to visit my mum I can see what great care they take of her as well as the other residents and have so much patience. I just can't thank them all enough for what they have accomplished with her and I can now sleep well and breathe a sigh of relief to know that she is being looked after so fantastically."

Karen L
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"We continue to be delighted with the compassion and care our mother receives, and she herself is genuinely happy in the home. She has made many friendships with staff and other residents and is clearly enjoying fulfilling days."

Peter C
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"My wife was admitted to Friston House Care Home in 2020 due to the severity of her Dementia. Fortunately, it gave the wonderful staff time to get her acclimatised and accept the new surroundings as "home" prior to the onset of Covid. Without a doubt, I felt instant "peace of mind ", knowing that she was being cared for by staff at all levels, who were totally dedicated to looking after the wellbeing of their patients. The nursing staff and carers in Memory Lane, are all heroes, having risen to the challenge of Covid, over and above their existing arduous duties. They work tirelessly as a team and inspire confidence with a smile. The nursing staff regularly keep you updated. She enjoyed music and dancing until her mobility deteriorated. In her room, the thoughtful carers would ensure her TV was tuned to a music channel, even in her final days whilst bedridden. My sincere thanks go to all staff. I have no hesitation in recommending Friston House."

David B
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.83 out of 5

"After suffering a stroke, Mum eventually went into Friston House in early February. The care she received there was outstanding. The staff were so very caring, efficient and friendly, and nothing was too much trouble. They made her final days the best that they could be. Even after her passing in April, I have received endless help and support. I cannot thank them enough."

Laraine N
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.33 out of 5

"Friston House is a relaxed home-from-home environment. Staff members know the residents and care for them well. Residents are treated with dignity and respect. The menu choices are well thought out and enjoyed, with a range of choices available."

K S
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.50 out of 5

"My mum went into residential 2 years 3 months ago and was looked after exceptionally. Whilst covid happened, I can’t praise highly enough the staff and their attentiveness and communication to my concerns and requests. Super support from a great team. I would especially shout out with great thanks to three members of staff, in particular, for their continued support as I know my mum's needs are, shall I say, quite demanding. Many thanks to you."

Kevin H
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.08 out of 5

"My sister found this lovely home for my mum. So on the 5th May 2022, myself and my sister and my husband took my mum there and were welcomed by the head of residential unit, top carer at the home. After two weeks my mum was moved upstairs to the nursing level as she was not very well. The nurses were all very pleasant to my mum to make her stay as comfortable as they could. The carers were all great and especially one lovely carer always made sure we as a family were looked after and were catered for too. And we always got a friendly hello from the head of residential unit. My mum’s stay was short at the care home as she passed away on 15 June 2022. It’s a very caring care home and very nicely decorated."

Nuala B
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.50 out of 5

"My sister has always been well cared for."

Beryl H
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.00 out of 5

"The staff are fantastic and make this care facility what it is; outstanding. The staff are all caring, helpful, friendly, professional and attentive, and are always willing to go the extra mile. It has been a great relief to be able to trust care staff after a traumatic experience in an NHS hospital and as soon as my Mum transferred to Friston House everything changed for the better. I am kept fully informed of all developments and staff are very responsive. The care is first class as is the food and ambience. The staff clearly work as a team which is so important. The explanation of my Mum having to be moved to palliative care was highly professional and compassionate and the staff have been proactive in seeking financial contributions from the financial authorities to help towards the costs of the care. I would recommend Friston House to anyone."

Rene D
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.92 out of 5

"My father's entry into the home was a traumatic experience for my family, especially my mother. Friston have guided and assisted with unbelievable compassion throughout this ongoing period. From the moment you enter the home, everyone seems to understand our situation and seems to have a moment for us as well as my father. I am unsure how we'd have managed to get this far without them. Thanks!"

A W
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.17 out of 5

"Mum spent a very contented and well care for time while at Barchester, Friston Way. All the nurses, carers and other staff were always kind, compassionate and friendly. I am so grateful that they were there to care for her and support me at the end of Mum's life. Thank you, is not a big enough word!"

Lynn B
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"The home and staff are fantastic. There are activities three times a day if you want to join in. The food is fantastic and a good choice for fussy eaters. Mum felt safe staying here for two weeks after coming out of the hospital."

Sharon A
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"Mum has been in the home now for 18 months and has always received excellent care. The staff are very friendly and competent. When I asked about visiting times I was told "This is Mum's home now, come when you wish". Also a very trying time for staff due to Covid."

Phillip H
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.40 out of 5

"My husband and I cannot recommend this home enough! What a wonderful place. My mother-in-law spent the last 4 weeks of her life here and she was treated with care, respect and dignity at all times. She was in room 48 on the 1st floor. We were kept thoroughly informed at all times. The team of staff and nurses engaged with her regularly. She was comfortable and clean. We have so much regard for the team on this floor. We were allowed to take our dog to visit too. Such passion and dedication. Thank you all so so much."

E H
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.33 out of 5

"My aunt has been a resident of Friston House for almost one year and has dementia and Alzheimers. Prior to moving there, she had been declining following a number of hospital visits but since then her condition has now stabilised and improved a little. The staff are very kind and caring towards her and ensure she has good personal care. They help and encourage her to eat and drink so, while she is frail, she does seem otherwise physically quite well. Overall she seems very settled and content at Friston House which is a comfort to my family and me knowing that she is being well cared for."

David C
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.33 out of 5

"The accommodation and personal care was exceptional at all times. Friston gave my mother-in-law the extra help and support that she needed to get her over a life-changing operation, this gave her the confidence to return to her own home. She enjoyed and engaged in the social activities. We found the staff to be compassionate and responsive with us as a family."

Jan G
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.50 out of 5

"We found the staff to be wonderful and caring, they looked after my mum with compassion. We were very impressed with the kindness shown by all the staff. They enabled my mum to gain the strength to go back to her own environment. We can't thank them enough."

John G
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"Mum has spent another year at Friston House and celebrated her 101st birthday in April. Again, as last year we managed two family celebrations in the private dining room as well as a 'singalong' at which the staff and residents sang 'Happy Birthday ' to her. Both events were catered for by the head chef and his team. They provided us with lunches from the daily menu, afternoon sandwiches and yet again a magnificent cake. I highly recommend this 'restaurant'! Our thanks go to all the staff, nurses, carers and the efforts of the activities team for their continued support to keep Mum happy and comfortable and motivated although she can be a bit 'stubborn' at times."

Irene B
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.83 out of 5

"We cannot say thank you enough for the care given to our mum during her time at Friston House. This is an excellent care home and all the staff are fantastic. When Mum could no longer live independently at home we found Friston House and knew straight away Mum would be happy there. The nurses/carers/activity girls were all lovely and Mum soon settled in. Mum especially enjoyed the activities available and she looked forward to the live entertainment and singalongs. All the staff seemed to know all the residents in depth – they soon realised Mum loved a chat so before long they knew Mum’s life story, all about her daughters and what her favourite tipple was. The standard of care Mum received was second to none – we can't thank the team enough. Although it's their job they genuinely cared. We can’t find enough words to express our thanks and appreciation for looking after our mum to the end. A huge thank you to everyone at Friston."

Jackie G
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Dad has settled into Friston House. The staff are always kind and friendly. Dad is in a safe home. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff. Thank you."

L C
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"I first visited Friston House in October 2022 and was impressed with the facilities and staff. Mum had quite complex needs and the nursing manager took the time to talk to me at length about the care they could provide. She was very honest, but also re-assuring in her answers and I added Mum to the waiting list. Sadly, Mum was only at Friston House from December to January 2023. She was on the 1st floor and the nurses and carers were lovely and very welcoming to Mum. Every time I visited, one of the nurse's would come and update me. Mum was on a lot of medication and had complex needs, but the staff were brilliant and ensured that all of her needs were met. They made a huge effort to help Mum settle in and really encouraged her to meet other residents and get up and participate with the activities. When Mum became unwell they updated me and then checked in every few days whilst she was in hospital. A special thank you to the staff."

Ally S
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.92 out of 5

"Such a great care home; I wouldn’t want my mum to be anywhere else. She is so settled and happy and, most importantly, safe and looked after. The activities and visits are so enjoyable for her. All the staff are so caring, and the food is amazing."

Sarah W
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"I find all the staff attentive and caring when dealing with my mother. The home is kept very clean and they arrange many different activities to keep the residents stimulated. At the end of the day I wanted my mother safe and cared for. She is here"

G M
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.75 out of 5

"Fourteen months exemplary support. Complete confidence in staff to look after Dad with care and compassion. They reassured and engaged with him, helpful and approachable. Dad joined in with various activities which enhanced his quality of life. He enjoyed sitting in the courtyard, singing/dancing along to visiting musicians, a river trip. After a month in hospital, Dad returned to Nightingale Walk. The turnaround in his well-being was astounding, due to dedicated nursing and care, skill and talent of the staff, plus them taking extra time and patience. They anticipated and met all his needs with a high standard of professionalism. He was treated with dignity, respect and kindness. They genuinely cherished him, knew his likes/dislikes, sense of humour, shared smiles. Medication accurately monitored and administered, including palliative care. We were kept informed thoroughly and all treated so tenderly at the end. Barchester Friston House Care Home is exceptional, filled with remarkable people."

Lianne F
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Excellent care manager, on top of things and responds promptly to any queries. All care staff seem genuinely fond of the residents and very approachable. The housekeeping staff also very friendly and respond to any requests with grace. Laundry arrangements good but often Mum has few underwear and sleeping garments even though she was admitted with plenty. Reception staff excellent. Activities staff try very hard to keep residents occupied with varying activities. Very pleased that we chose Friston House for our mum."

Sally O
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.17 out of 5

"We cannot thank Friston House enough. We got the news that my elderly mum would be discharged from hospital, baffling to us when she was in such a fragile state physically and mentally. Friston House was beyond helpful, arranging to undertake a care assessment of my mum in hospital on the same day, and lining everything up for her to arrive at Friston House the next day. In a fraught time, they went above and beyond. Her care during respite was second to none. The home treated Mum like a permanent resident from day one. The thought that went into even the configuration of her room to try to settle her as quickly as possible was not overlooked. The time that went into ensuring thorough reviews of her acute medical needs was invaluable. All the staff were incredibly caring, putting Mum's needs at the forefront of mind. Even after the end of respite care, Mum was never out of thought; they tracked down a missing top and sent it in the post, so very kind."

Claire E
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.58 out of 5

"Family BBQ was a success. Really enjoyed the day nice to see everyone enjoying themselves. Food was very nice, also the staff very friendly looking forward to the next time."

Kevin P
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"First of all, many thanks, indeed, for everything you have done for my brother. I saw how caring all the staff are, no matter how hard it is to deal with my brother for the past few months. And in his most difficult time, I saw one of the team leaders who put so much dedication and care into my brother, she is an absolute star that no matter how busy she was, she stayed with my brother, spoke with him, encouraging him to eat, she sang to my brother and even he was closing his eyes, I saw my brother smile. She never failed to update me and give me assurance for my brother's well-being. I saw how much she cared for all the residents and with no expectations in return from the family. She really has a big heart. Thank you ever so much to the team leader and all the staff. She deserves to be rewarded and the home is lucky to have this kind of staff. Thank you so much Barchester Friston House Care Home."

David W
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"What a lovely care home! Dad has been here for six weeks and in that time he has settled in very well. He seems happy and relaxed. All of the staff are extremely caring, professional and treat Dad with respect and dignity. No matter how busy they are they are always happy to help, nothing is too much trouble and they are always smiling. Dad is being cared for very well, he is always clean and dressed. The food is great and Dad enjoys it, along with all the tea and biscuits! Choosing a care home for Dad was a very stressful experience, we've certainly made the right choice!"

Jane A
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"Mum was apprehensive and so were we (her family) about bringing Mum into a care setting but we could no longer cope with the 24-hour care at home and in Mum's best interest, we found Barchester Friston House Care Home. Mum has been here two days now and our concerns and feelings of doubt were completely diminished with the care and definite love for care shown by all members of staff and amazing communication and organisation shown. Beautiful, clean and comfortable surroundings. Value for money - definitely see what you're paying for."

Rebecca F
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Overall, we are happy with the experience of our mum being at Barchester Friston House Care Home. We are a little disappointed at the speed that improvements to the laundry are taking. We would like to be able to view Mum's care record online. We have felt very well supported in seeking funding for Mum's additional care needs."

K S
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.50 out of 5

"The care that my mum has been given has been extremely good and much appreciated."

Lesley R
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Am so happy with the ongoing support shown to my dad. The care he receives is always given with his best interests and dignity in mind. As family members, we feel very supported too."

Lucy D
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.92 out of 5

"My mum moved here on 5th October, she has settled really well and we are very happy with the care and support all the staff have provided. My mum seems so much more relaxed than she was before. She is enjoying the food here and eating well. We wish she moved here sooner. The staff are really friendly and helpful with any questions we have."

Suzanne T
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"I was recommended to come here by friend and my family and I are most satisfied with my stay. I find the management team most efficient and courteous and all of medical and ancillary staff are caring, hardworking and good-humoured. It seems likely, due to heart failure, that I may return again. Without a doubt, I would wish to return to this excellent centre - if they could include me!"

Jillian A
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Just a quick message to say how helpful your staff are with the care of my mother-in-law, in particular two carers. Such fantastic carers. They all need a decent pay rise and a medal for having the care and patience of a saint."

Richard J
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.33 out of 5

"Well organised, clean and nicely decorated home with consistent staff who really do care. Excellent team who treat everyone with dignity and respect. Food is made by chefs on-site with an excellent menu choice."

Viv W
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Fantastic support on residential units. Helpful, knowledgeable and 100% care to residents and family kept in the loop. Residents treated with respect by staff and the head of the unit fully understands residents' needs and goes over and above while on duty."

Michelle J
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.58 out of 5

"It would be difficult to find anything to criticise about the quality of care our father has received since arriving at Barchester Friston House Care Home. The staff are very friendly and welcoming and nothing seems to be too much trouble for them."

Colin P
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"Review is based over a four-month and ongoing residency. Some initial concerns have proven to be exactly that, there just needed to be a settling-in period and getting to know the home and the routines. Overall, the level of care has been very good. Any medical needs that have arisen have been quickly raised with GPs by the staff and well dealt with. Emotional and social support for the residents is also very good with staff always positive and caring. Friston does seem to move staff around its three distinct areas which, in the long term, should be positive but in my opinion, means that consistency and continuity have, on occasion, been lacking. All staff and management have been excellent on a reactive basis when we have raised any query or matter but there have been instances when I expected a greater proactive approach. Having said this, the management and supervisory staff are always available and make time to listen and discuss any issues. Overall, our family is very happy."

Darren M
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.00 out of 5

"Very friendly and professional. Care and help for everyone. Seeking to make my father feel at home and comfortable."

Jennifer S
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"The staff at Friston have been amazing. They go above and beyond. The change in my nan since being at Friston is amazing."

L A
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Since our family member has been at Friston House, there has been a clear change in her, she is more independent and positive."

P M
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"Our first experience of residential/nursing care. My mum spent a year at Friston before transferring to a care home nearer to family. Our overall experience was as marked below. The standout experience was the commitment of the care staff. They are well-led and show care and compassion. The only real criticism is the introduction of the new electronic reporting system. This appears to have been implemented without sufficient training or support. The prescriptive nature of the system means that staff spend less time with residents and feel under extra pressure to complete reports."

A T
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.67 out of 5

"Fantastic care home, well maintained by staff. Everyone goes above and beyond for the resident's care. Hygiene and welfare are excellent, would highly recommend this care home to anyone who wishes for their loved ones to be well cared for. Thank you."

Stacey J
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"My relative seems to be very happy with the care and staff at Barchester. The staff here are very supportive, attentive and very friendly. They have taken a liking to the carer - they have the same music interests and he is very much so a very jolly person to be around."

S P
carehome.co.uk rating: 5.00 out of 5

"We are so thankful that my husband was placed at Barchester Friston House Care Home. He is treated with respect and his care needs met. All staff know his name and take time to chat to him. The home is well-kept, food lovely and nice and clean."

Hazel B
carehome.co.uk rating: 4.83 out of 5