The Lodge

22 Spicer Road, Exeter EX1 1SY
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9.9 75 Reviews
  • The Lodge, Exeter
Originally designed as a home for a successful Exeter family in the late 1880s, The Lodge is an impressive Victorian villa with extensions added throughout the years, with the latest completed in 2018. The whole home provides an excellent standard of accommodation to suit everyone, including suites for couples and it is still very much a home today, providing the highest standards of nursing and residential care to people who appreciate the sense of refinement with a homely ambience.

The Lodge's philosophy is to provide 'exceptional care for the individual' and it is evident in everyday life at The Lodge, from the fine dining experience, to the varied activities in the social calendar that cater for a wide range of hobbies and interests. Located in the heart of Exeter, The Lodge is a beautifully designed care home offering tailored residential, nursing, and respite care. With 50 thoughtfully furnished rooms, it provides a tranquil yet engaging environment for its residents. Surrounded by mature gardens and scenic views, The Lodge offers the perfect balance of serenity and accessibility. A lively activities programme encourages residents to explore their interests, with opportunities including music therapy, arts and crafts, and regular outings. Dining is a highlight, with delicious, chef-prepared meals served in a welcoming atmosphere that fosters community and conversation. The Lodge is a home where care, comfort, and connection come together seamlessly.

Care Provided by The Lodge

  • Primary Care Categories
  • No Medical Intervention
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Care Types Provided
  • Nursing Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 62 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Cancer Care
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Colitis & Crohn's Disease
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Head/Brain Injury
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Neuropathic
  • Orthopaedic
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • End of Life Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Physiotherapy

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Deborah Skinner (General Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (58)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (2)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (58)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No
    • Last Refurbishment: 2017
    • Number of floors: 2

Funding & Fees Guide for The Lodge

  • 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 £1,900
    • Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,200
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £2,000
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,300
  • We will apply for NHS-funded Nursing Care (FNC) for all residents receiving nursing care and if awarded this will be deducted from your fees.


  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact The Lodge to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Bar/Café
  • 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
  • Parking
  • Limited parking at the front of the building. Telephone for access to the rear of the building. Otherwise short term on street paid parking or a car park some 400 yards away, also paid.


Total of 75, showing 1-20
9.9

The Lodge has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.929) out of 10, based on 30 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Lodge has 75 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 68
  • 7
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Date Published

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Lodge has been exceptional. The manager has been very supportive from the start and has an open door to residents, their families and staff. The staff are always friendly, caring and go above and beyond to provide outstanding care. The home is always clean and staff are smartly dressed. The food
provided is freshly cooked on site and a good menu selection. There are always plenty of activities available and regular visits from entertainers. Would recommend without hesitation.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you for this review and I'm delighted that you have found every area to be worthy of such praise. We strive very hard to meet the needs of each and every resident and that includes families and friends as well. We are proud of the standard of service we offer and to hear it from families, is always wonderful. Thank you again.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Lodge provides excellent care for Mum. The entire team - from care staff and nurses to cleaners, activity coordinators, catering and management - are professional, friendly and attentive. The facility is beautiful, the food is good, and there's a good variety of activities, but the staff's genuine
care and attention to residents' needs is what makes this place stand out. I'd highly recommend The Lodge.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you very much for a great (and quick) response about your mum's care and your visit to the UK. I really appreciate it and the time you've taken to do it! We look forward to your next visit to The Lodge.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father's move into The Lodge, Exeter was managed extremely well, he has settled quickly and regards his lovely room as his home now. I am very grateful to all at The Lodge for looking after him so well.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you very much for this review and your thoughts on how your father's settled at The Lodge. I appreciate your time in filling out the carehome.co.uk review. Thank you.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I stayed at The Lodge for about a week following surgery (as I live alone and in a house on multiple levels). The Lodge provided exactly what I needed, especially the first few days when I was so uncomfortable. Everyone was really kind and I appreciated the help I received from the carers and nurses,
as well as the hospitality staff and other teams.
In addition, I was really reassured to have professional nurses monitoring the medication, especially the heavy-duty painkillers, and to have the personal care support. The Lodge also arranged a session with a physiotherapist which was a turning point as it gave me the confidence to move about more and understand how to manage the discomfort. I would not have had any of this at home.
I would not hesitate to recommend The Lodge to anyone with similar needs.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Hello and thank you for your review - I'm delighted you felt reassured by our care and that you have the confidence to go forward with your life at home. It was a pleasure to have met you and in the nicest possible way, I hope you won't need us again!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

What can I say about The Lodge? I am the daughter of a resident who was admitted 5 years ago. My mother had suffered a stroke and until then had been completely independent. Although mobile, it affected her memory and she found it difficult to adjust but over time with care, encouragement, respect and
support, she got there and she had a beautiful room overlooking the garden which she loved. She was free to potter; to join in any activities she wished to which were very professional, and included outside speakers and interesting subjects, which she enjoyed. Also, lovely day trips out. Throughout her stay, she was treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Her carers knew and managed her expectations well to the very end and there is quality in everything the Lodge team do for their residents; beautiful buildings and gardens, immaculately clean, fabulous care and wonderful food but most of all in my case, the general manager and her team's ability to involve me too. A huge thank you!

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

I hardly know what to say in return apart from thank you so very much for this review. I will always recall your mum from the moment of admission to The Lodge and, the great times we had after that - especially when you were visiting her. You will all be so much missed.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother received excellent care in the time she was here. I was particularly impressed with the care manager who was very willing to work with us to ensure Mum's changing needs were met. They are a very caring team, both day and night staff. The food is excellent. Mum's time there was happy and we
are grateful to all the staff. Special thanks from me to the receptionists that would run upstairs with the phone without complaint, just friendly greeting!

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Hello and thank you for taking time to complete this review. I was delighted to ensure that your mother's needs were met on all levels and will pass on your thanks to the whole team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum moved to The Lodge during the pandemic to be close to her family in Exeter and to receive end-of-life care. She ended up enjoying nearly three more years thanks to the exceptional care and support she received. We already knew The Lodge had a good reputation but it exceeded this and we are so
grateful to you all. Those extra years were entirely due to how safe and content she felt. The Lodge team helped support us right through to the end and beyond. All the team have been exceptionally kind, supportive and sensitive.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so much for this review - it was such a roller coaster ride and one that ended well! It has been a pleasure to have known your mum and her family as well. We will miss seeing you here at The Lodge.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our Mum arrived at The Lodge in 2021 in a very poor state of health with a prediction of six weeks to live. From the day of arrival, to the day she slipped quietly away in May 2024 the level of care received was superb.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so much for this review and your mum's stay was a pleasure and a lovely surprise that she was able to enjoy her life for so long, seeing her grandchildren in particular. We will miss her a lot and her family of course.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

From the moment my husband arrived he received a warm and friendly welcome. The nursing staff were excellent throughout his stay and the health care assistants were very caring especially when dealing with his personal care. They were always cheerful and treated him with dignity and compassion. Nothing
was too much trouble. The general manager would often call in for a chat and always made sure he was happy. She always had his best interests at heart and her aim was to make him feel as much at home as possible.
Choosing a nursing care home for a loved one is possibly one of the most difficult tasks a family may have to do but we chose well. I would therefore highly recommend The Lodge in Exeter.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so much for this review - it was a pleasure to care for your husband and he was so good at keeping us cheerful as well! In the short time he was with us, he made a difference, as did all of the family. Look after yourselves.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot speak highly enough of The Lodge. My mum came here for 7 weeks for palliative/end-of-life care. Every aspect from the cleanliness, level of care, food, and of course management is second to none. The kindness, love and empathy my mum received was first-class. They always had her interests and
comfort as a priority. As next of kin, I felt listened to and supported at what was an extremely difficult time. It is of no surprise that many staff stay working there for years! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I truly can’t recommend The Lodge highly enough.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Justine, thank you so much for this review. It has been such a pleasure to have not only your mum (again) but to have you back at The Lodge as well. You really represent what family means. We will miss you.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

An excellent care home for the last two years of our mother’s life. Kind competent care with great respect and regards for her wishes. Fantastic end-of-life care and support for us all. Spacious light room able to take furniture and pictures. Lovely food served in the restaurant and great care taken
to meet dietary needs. Interesting activities and gentle encouragement to residents to participate. Nothing to fault at all.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so much for your lovely review. Your mum was a pleasure to have known and I’m only sorry that she is no longer with us.
I hope all is well with the whole family.
Thank you again.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Great first impressions which were backed up by subsequent experiences. My friend is a very independent person who is being treated with the utmost respect.

Reply from Anna Boyes, Marketing Director at The Lodge

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. I am pleased to hear that your friend has settled in well.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Lodge is an outstanding care home in Exeter. From the moment I met the manager, I knew the decision to move my friend in was the right decision. Every aspect of the home is first-class. The nurses and the activity team deserve special mention.
Your loved one will be in good hands.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Hello and thank you for this amazing review. It has been a fairly short journey with The Lodge but meaningful even so. I will miss both of you.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Lodge was the perfect place for my mother to end her days in comfort. The staff worked hard to ease her transition from home and within a few weeks she was comfortable in the environment. The nursing staff and carers could not have been more attentive - I really felt they had my mother's best
interests at heart. On the very few occasions that my mother had a minor complaint it was immediately addressed. Since my brother and I live abroad communication was important and the daily messages from the nursing staff kept us informed and aware of my mother's state of mind and health. Their concern and kindness towards my mother as well as for my brother and me made this difficult transition easier to bear.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you for this lovely review and for your company when you were visiting us. Your mother certainly kept us on our toes and there is nothing wrong with that!
Please pass my regards on to your brother and your family.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My grandfather was extremely happy in this home. The staff were very caring, he thoroughly enjoyed all of the activities which were stimulating and engaging. The food was excellent and the home was clean, warm and friendly.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you for this review - we are all so sad that your grandad is no longer with us. He was such a great friend and asset to us all at The Lodge. A personal thank you from me for all your kindness through the years.
Debbie


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both of my parents are residents at The Lodge. Both have differing needs and the team have at all times been kind understanding and professional. My mother passed away peacefully in her sleep and the team ensured we could be with her. They make a real effort to understand each resident as individuals
and treat them with dignity and respect. The Lodge also kindly provided the drawing room for Mum's wake which helped with Dad's mobility challenges.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Hello and thank you for this review. It’s good to know that you felt the care your family received was dignified and caring. I will let the staff know of your thoughts.
Thank you again
Debbie


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Everyone at the Lodge worked hard to help my husband settle in and to make his last weeks as comfortable as possible. The nurses and carers couldn't do enough for him. They were all professional and thoughtful in their caring for him, and they were very kind and supportive towards me.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this review as your husband was with us only a short time. I really appreciate it. Look after yourself.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The team have been absolutely amazing, keeping my father and his room very clean. Food is well cooked and there is a great variety. Nothing is too much trouble. Lots of events if the residents would like to join in. I felt lots of respect and kindness towards my father. The staff made every effort to
make him comfortable, whilst professionally nursing him, and also able to have fun at the right time. The other residents are lovely people, always ready to help and have a chat. I was so pleased my father became part of the family at The Lodge and I would definitely recommend. As a family member I was always made to feel extremely welcome. Thank you to all!

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so very much for this wonderful review which I would echo regarding the staff commitment and care. I'm only sorry that your father was not well enough to join in activities, but he was always happy to see staff and chat.


Thank you


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Lodge does far more than just "care", it gives residents a family, where the atmosphere is one of enthusiasm, positivity and energy. These are the qualities, which impact on the residents' demeanors, resulting in the creation of a true "caring community". The "Community" that staff the Lodge are
committed to ensuring everyone has a life of happiness; the biggest contributor towards a person's positive health. As the son of one of the Resident Community, it gives me confidence to know my mother is getting not only the professional care she needs, but also the compassionate and loving care she deserves. No one wants to see their loved ones have to leave their home, but when it's the only option, you wish to find a "Home" where one thrives and "lives life!" I'd like to thank The lodge for all they've done for my mother, since 2021.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you very much for this acknowledgement of the staff's hard work at The Lodge. It is sometimes a difficult job and when a resident joins us so very unwell (as your mum was) and then thrives, it is a pleasure to see. The resident community is indeed a happy and vibrant one.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I needed a week's post-operative care before returning home. The Lodge proved to be perfect, providing exactly the right level of support for my recovery. My room was very well equipped and furnished. The care staff were engaging, cheerful and attentive. The nursing staff were supportive without being
intrusive. The food was varied and of excellent quality. I felt there was a genuine concern to meet my needs, different as they were from those of a permanent resident. I have had many years of experience as a trustee of similar homes. I think The Lodge achieved what we aspired to achieve: comprehensive and compassionate care for each individual.

Reply from Deborah Skinner, General Manager at The Lodge

Thank you so very much for this lovely review and I'm thrilled to hear that we met your expectations, particularly as you have been a trustee in the care home sector.
I hope your recovery continues well and you won't need our services again any time soon.
Thank you again.


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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.929)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.929) out of 10 for The Lodge is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 30 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 30 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 4.929 for The Lodge is calculated as follows: ( (328 Excellents x 5) + (19 Goods x 4) + (3 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 350 Ratings = 4.929

  • 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 The Lodge is based on 30 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 62 registered maximum number of service users is 12.4, which has been reached with 30 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: 18 Nov 2021

Overall
Outstanding

  • Caring

    Outstanding
  • Effective

    Good
  • Responsive

    Outstanding
  • Safe

    Good
  • Well-led

    Outstanding

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 (3)

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Meet the Team (1)

Deborah

Deborah Skinner

Job Title: General Manager

Having trained as a nurse in Plymouth and achieving a BSc Hons degree in psychology a few years later, Deborah has been General Manager at The Lodge since 2006. Under Deborah’s leadership The Lodge attained an ‘Outstanding’ Care Quality Commission rating in March 2020, a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all staff and of the exceptional care provided to our residents.


In spite of working in several specialisms including surgery and paediatrics, elder care was to become a lifelong passion of Deborah, as shown by over 20 years in the care home industry. Remaining passionate about The Lodge residents and staff has never presented a challenge, as the role of General Manager is more than just a job – it becomes part of an extended family for many working there, as our long service records show.


Frequently Asked Questions about The Lodge

What types of Care is The Lodge registered for?

Older Person Care, Respite Care, Physical Disability & No Medical Intervention are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

What additional types of Care does The Lodge provide?

Palliative Care, Convalescent Care, Physiotherapy, Own GP if required & End of Life Care are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does The Lodge have?

There are 58 Single Rooms and 2 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at The Lodge?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Bar/Café, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is The Lodge to the centre of Exeter?

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