The Chestnut Lodge

18-20 London Road, Tonbridge TN10 3DA
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9.5 39 Reviews
  • The Chestnut Lodge, Tonbridge
The Chestnut Lodge Care Home is a 60-bed residential care home, which supports those living with dementia. The home opened in 2013 and has recently had a refurbishment.
Many residents are living with a diagnosis of dementia and the team at Chestnut Lodge support their residents to be as active and independent as they can be. There is a large communal area that offers a pub, a café and an activities area. There is a designate activities team that encourages residents to continue with their hobbies and interest such as exercise, singing and flower arranging.
There is an onsite hairdresser where the residents can visit and enjoy some pampering. The home also offers quiet corners where residents can read a book or take a nap.
All food is freshly prepared at the home and there is a chef that ensure that individual dietary need is met. Residents enjoy afternoon tea and a natter in the café.

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Care Provided by The Chestnut Lodge

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Learning Disability
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 60 Service Users
  • Privately Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Colitis & Crohn's Disease
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Physiotherapy

Good to Know

  • Owner
  • Tonbridge Care Ltd
  • Person in charge
  • Kelly Butler (Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Admissions Monday - Friday only
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (60)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (13)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No
    • Last Refurbishment: 2022
    • Number of floors: 3

Funding & Fees Guide for The Chestnut 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 £1,786
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,786
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,786
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care from £1,786

  • Excluded from the standard fees are additional services i.e. Hairdresser, Chiropodist, Audiology, opticians, dentist, Excursions, toiletries(we have an inhouse shop)
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact The Chestnut Lodge to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

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

  • All visitors will be required to complete a LFT Covid Test on arrival to the home prior to their visit. LFT Covid tests can be completed at home by the visitor however, they must register the test prior to their visit and evidence the result on arrival.


  • Parking

  • Free parking available to the front and side of Chestnut Lodge


The Chestnut Lodge Reviews (39)

Total of 39, showing 21-39
9.5

The Chestnut Lodge has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.463) out of 10, based on 26 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Chestnut Lodge has 39 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Review from Susan M (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Mum has found it difficult adjusting to life in a care home, having been completely independent up until December 2022. However, the care staff, seniors and management have been great. When mum first went into Chestnut Lodge she had to go into the only available room, which was on the top floor and
there were eaves in the room, it wasn't suitable as mum has severe sight loss. However, as soon as another room became available mum was moved into it. Similarly, if she has had any issues, medical or otherwise, they are sorted out very promptly. It is a little difficult for mum to make connections with many of the residents as a lot have dementia and her loss of sight makes it harder to recognise people. The garden is beautiful and is lovely to sit in with mum when I visit.

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Review from Roxanne Y (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The support, guidance and care provided is of excellent quality. The home offers a great variety of activities and inclusion for residents. It's very welcoming to visitors and all the staff are friendly and go above and beyond working extremely hard. The atmosphere is great. I'm so grateful for this
wonderful place and everything it offers.

Reply from Kelly Butler, Manager at The Chestnut Lodge

Thank you for your kind comments, they are very much appreciated and welcomed.


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Review from J S (Niece of Resident) published on 11 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Chestnut Lodge is a home from home, it does not look institutional-like some care homes. My uncle has been there 9 years, he always lived with family so we were unsure how he would settle but we need not have worried, the care staff made him feel welcome like they always do. They are a caring and cheerful
team, recently my uncle became unwell and we thought we were going to lose him, the staff were great they kept us informed and could not do enough to support us, fortunately, he pulled through which we put down to the love and support he had from family and his chestnut lodge family. Chestnut Lodge is not just a care home, it is his home.

Reply from Kelly Butler, Manager at The Chestnut Lodge

Thank you so much for your positive feedback. We appreciate your kind words and we are very happy that you have had a great experience for the past 9 years.


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Review from Shirley J (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have always found Chestnut Lodge to be of a high standard and very well managed. It shows that the staff like the manager and everyone is always welcoming.
There is a wide range of activities on offer for the residents and the building is well maintained.
My relative never leaves her room and the
staff always serve her food in the room and try their best to be of assistance.
The home is open to visitors any time day or night and has a calm environment with ‘busy’ pockets of goings on for those who want.

Reply from Kelly Butler, Manager at The Chestnut Lodge

Your kind comments are very lovey and reassuring to hear. Thank you for taking the time to review Chestnut Lodge.


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Review from Simon G (Son of Resident) published on 7 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 1.0 out of 5

In June 2023 there was an incident at Chestnut Lodge (unwitnessed by any care worker). My mother suffered severe head trauma and she was hospitalised requiring a huge amount of specialists stitching to her head and face and only 3 days later my mother fell again at Chestnut Lodge at 5am and broke her
hip. The staff at Chestnut Lodge took over six hours to call an ambulance for her! Since these events, my mother will never be able to walk again and is mentally damaged to the point that she is no longer able to communicate. This may sound extreme, but it is true. Only a few weeks prior to the last incident and fall, my mother spent the afternoon dancing and singing and chatting to us. Now she will never walk again, let alone dance.

Reply from Kelly Butler, Manager at The Chestnut Lodge

Thank you for your review. We are sorry you feel you have had a negative experience. We take feedback seriously, constructively and without prejudice. Both incidents were unfortunate, they happened unexpectedly and unintentionally. Both incidents have been fully investigated and where identified actions have been taken, processes reviewed and implemented. However, there appear to be some inaccuracies in your comments, specifically since these events, regarding your mum's current condition? We did receive communication from yourself stating that your mum is now starting to mobilise and that your mum is now starting to vocalise more and more each day. It saddens us to hear that her needs have possibly deteriorated since our communication and since her move. Your mum was loved by all staff and residents, and built great friendships with everyone during her time at Chestnut Lodge, it was a home from home for you both, which on numerous times you stated that both you and your mum loved. We wish you all the best.


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Review from Ian L (Son of Resident) published on 13 June 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

On being shown the care home we were unsure due to the amount of residents with dementia. My mum has been there since October and we now feel this is no longer a concern. My mother has settled in very well, fantastic care from all of the team from management to carers and cleaners. I cannot fault the
care given, especially when she is unwell. Whatever is needed for her is done immediately if needed. I would recommend highly The Chestnut Lodge to anyone thinking of long-term care for a relative.

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Review from Helen H (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 March 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Dad was booked in, originally, for respite care - he never came home. Everyone in the home made Dad feel so loved and he was the happiest ever. Unfortunately, following a week in the hospital with a chest infection and a short time 'at home with his friends', Dad passed away. Words fail me with the
tenderness and love Dad was given at all times. The Chestnut Lodge made his passing 'magical' along with tenderness to us - his family.

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Review from Christine R (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I just would like to say a big thank you to the staff for making us so welcome today. We enjoyed a lovely Christmas lunch together with Mum. It was almost like home from home. All the staff had put so much care and love into the setting as well. I think that Mum thoroughly enjoyed herself and our company.
The staff work so hard and its much appreciated, the care and kindness given to my mum.

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Review from Sylvia J (Wife of Resident) published on 20 July 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My husband has been with you for three months now and we have had nothing but praise for all of you at Chestnut Lodge. All of your staff are a wonderful team so thank you all.

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Review from Christina W (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 June 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My Mum has been a resident at The Chestnut Lodge for over 4 years. The staff are always welcoming and helpful. Mum is well cared for and her needs met. Mum enjoys the many activities on offer and especially her trips to the resident hairdresser. Even though the last few years have been difficult due
to the pandemic the management and staff found ways to maintain contact by phone calls, video calls and Facebook. This contact was very much appreciated by myself and my Mum. The Management always keeps me updated on any changes. I feel happy that Mum is well looked after. The Chestnut Lodge is a lovely caring home.

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Review from Jane H (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 June 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent staff - like family.

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Review from Arthur R (Brother of Resident) published on 4 January 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My sister is about to start her 5th year as a resident of Chestnut Lodge and I can truly say that as her LPOA and closest blood relative, that Chestnut Lodge have done a superb job of catering for my sister’s needs - especially in the current difficult times. They have tried so hard to keep some sort
of visiting going - which has not been easy. My sister has suffered from being isolated during these times but she has had excellent activities, good food and supportive medical care throughout this depressing pandemic. The staff have been loving and caring and given their very best and the management have been excellent at keeping in touch with direct relatives and telling us the state of play. My sister is still my dear sister, although her Alzheimer’s is gradually taking its toll after 6 years now. I can unhesitatingly recommend Chestnut Lodge for anyone who is suffering from this terrible illness that not only affects their quality of life but also the lives of those who love them.

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Review from Sonia G (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 May 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Highly recommend this care home. The staff are always cheerful, welcoming and helpful. Mum is happy, and in these uncertain times, it is a comfort to know she is well cared for. Thank you to all the staff for their hard work.

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Review from Butch K (Son of Resident) published on 31 March 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum went into this care home in December. My sister and I went to see this home and loved it as soon as we entered. Very clean and fresh and was greeted with smiling faces. My mum, having slight Dementia, has really taken to it, the staff are so friendly and helpful and you are made to feel at home
every visit. Thank you all for looking after my mum, I am very grateful.

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Review from J B (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 November 2017
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I find the home to be very friendly and the staff very approachable.
Any issues I've had have been dealt with very quickly and very well.
My mother has been at Chestnut Lodge for 2 and a half years, she is happy, well looked after and settled.
She has a good connection with all of the staff and is
often joking and laughing with them.
Her room is always clean and tidy as is the rest of the home.
Drinks and snacks are always available.

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Review from G B (Wife of Resident) published on 24 October 2017
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 2.0 out of 5

The home has gone downhill. Management overall is not good, needs a big improvement. Staff shortage and cleanliness could be better at times, as can activities.

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Review from Alan P (Power of Attorney of Resident) published on 25 April 2017
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I hold POA for my cousin who could no longer live in her own home as she became increasingly anxious and likely to wander. Chestnut Lodge made a transfer as simple as possible and were helpful throughout. My cousin has now been resident there for nearly 3 months. She looks well and the staff take a
personal interest too. The home is clean and well run. Meals are good and visitors welcome. Dementia is a horrible illness and my cousin is understandably very frustrated sometimes. The home appears to be dealing with this well.

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Review from Patricia S (Friend of Resident) published on 22 March 2017
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Having had an unfortunate experience at his previous home we were a little apprehensive at him being moved to The Chestnut Lodge. We were delighted at this lovely home. The manager is a delight, a straight forward and understanding person. She and her wonderful team know exactly the type of approach
needed in this Dementia environment. Consequently, he has settled well and all his needs are cared for. I cannot express how happy and delighted we are that he is in such a caring home. The Manager and her team do an outstanding job. May I also say how fresh and clean the home is and we love the atmosphere so happy and bright. A HUGE thank you all who work so so hard to maintain this wonderful home.

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Review from John B (Son of Resident) published on 13 October 2015
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father went to Chestnut Lodge with dementia in February 2015. He was incontinent and virtually wheel chair bound. My mother although fit and well, was struggling despite 2x daily care visits and good family support. Since going to Chestnut Lodge dad has become much more mobile, visits the toilet
unaided (he still needs pads), and just seems happier altogether. Mum, now living alone also appears to have improved, has gained weight and is much happier, she is always made welcome when she visits dad. The whole family are grateful for improving the quality of life for dad and mum. Cannot fault them.

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Current Review Score: 9.5 (9.463)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.5 (9.463) out of 10 for The Chestnut Lodge is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.5 out of 5 from 26 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 25 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Care Home is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.463 for The Chestnut Lodge is calculated as follows: ( (183 Excellents x 5) + (102 Goods x 4) + (11 Satisfactorys x 3) + (3 Poors x 2) + (8 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 307 Ratings = 4.463

  • 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 Chestnut Lodge is based on 25 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 60 registered maximum number of service users is 12, which has been reached with 25 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Performance

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 6 Apr 2023

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Requires improvement

  • Well-led

    Good

Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.

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Bed Vacancies

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (0)

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Meet the Team (2)

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Kelly Butler

Job Title: Registered Manager

Joined: 2019

Kelly Butler is an established Care Manager working in the sector for 18 years. She has a wide range of experience including Domiciliary Care, Learning Disabilities, Nursing and Residential Care settings and a previous experience of assessing for health and social care services.


Kelly holds NVQ Level 5 and retains the registered managers award.


Kelly is passionate about Chestnut Lodge, delivers high standards of care and provides individualised care to all our residents.


No image found

Louise Newton

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2021

Louise has worked within the care sector for over 18 years, she has developed her knowledge and experience in a number of areas including: Palliative Care, Elective Surgery, Care Homes and the Community.


Louise believes in offering the highest standards of care to our service users and recognises the importance of building and maintaining a rapport with all relatives and healthcare professions in order to achieve this.


Louise has completed her Level 3 in Health and Social Care.