
Personal touches-especially on birthdays-add warmthLouise P(Granddaughter of Resident/Service User)

In summary, Dawson Lodge is a lovely, welcoming place to be.David B(Friend of Resident/Service User)

it is by far the most friendly, caring and welcoming placeJennifer P(Wife of Resident/Service User)

Personal touches-especially on birthdays-add warmthLouise P(Granddaughter of Resident/Service User)

In summary, Dawson Lodge is a lovely, welcoming place to be.David B(Friend of Resident/Service User)

it is by far the most friendly, caring and welcoming placeJennifer P(Wife of Resident/Service User)

Dawson Lodge in Southampton is a purpose-built home supporting up to 43 older people to live a comfortable lifestyle, as well as providing dementia care. It is located in West End, close to road and public transport links.
The home strives to deliver a range of residential care services, including convalescence care; respite care; trial stays and long-term care for those who can no longer look after themselves.
The care team at...
Care Provided by Dawson Lodge
Primary Care Categories
- Older Person Care
- Dementia
Length of Stay
- Permanent Care
- Respite Care
Care Types Provided
- Residential Care
- Dementia Residential Care
- For a maximum of 43 Service Users
Dementia Care TypesMild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
Mild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
- Mild Dementia
- Moderate Dementia
Other Care Provided
- Convalescent Care
Facilities
- Own Furniture if required
- Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
- Close to Local shops
- Near Public Transport
- Lift
- Wheelchair Access
- Gardens
- Bar/Café
- Residents Kitchenette
- Phone Point in own room
- Television point in own room
- Residents Internet Access
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Fees can vary depending on care needs and other factors. Colleagues at Dawson Lodge will be happy to discuss our weekly fees with you and what our fees include.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Dawson Lodge for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Contact Dawson Lodge to confirm what's included and get a personalised quote:
Funding Types Accepted
- Self-Funding (Private)
- Local Authority with Top-up
- Local Authority
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
Good to Know
Group / Owner
- Anchor
- Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
Person in charge
- Kirsten Tennant (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Mixed (no single-gender units)
- Ages 65+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: Yes
- Year Purpose Built: -1
Room Information
- Single Rooms (43)
- Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (43)
Visiting
- Welcome visitors at the home.
Parking
- On-site parking including disabled spaces.
Dawson Lodge Reviews (123)
Dawson Lodge has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.928) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Dawson Lodge has 123 reviews.
Mum has been at Dawson Lodge now for 5 months. She was made to feel very welcome from day 1 and very quickly settled in to her new life. When ever I visit I always receive a warm welcome from the staff who work hard to provide great care, food and activities. We couldn't be happier with our choice.
After various family discussions and home visits she decided to try out Dawson Lodge, close to my sister.
After the first couple of (emotional) weeks adjusting Mum decided to stay at Dawson Lodge and she is now very content.
The staff are truly amazing, so helpful, attentive, kind and thoughtful. Mum soon started joining in with some of the daily activities including painting pictures, listening to visiting singers and musicians and light exercise to name but a few.
The food is cooked fresh everyday and the menu is extensive and well balanced. We've joined in family events and sampled the delicious food for ourselves.
Mum sleeps really well and feels safe and the staff have come to know her really well and that gives us great comfort.
We can visit Mum anytime and are always made to feel welcome. Her room is always clean with fresh water in the fridge
Every member of staff is kind, caring, and incredibly dedicated. From day one, they have gone above and beyond to make sure my Nan has felt safe, happy, and well looked after. She has settled in far better than we ever imagined, which has given our whole family real peace of mind.
A special thank you has to go to Kirstin. She is an absolute superstar and has played such a huge part in helping my Nan settle into her new home. Her warmth, compassion, and genuine care have made all the difference. She has such a natural gift for what she does, and it's clear she truly cares about every resident.
Thank you to everyone at Dawson Lodge for everything you do. We are so grateful for the outstanding care and support you've given my Nan!
Luke
And all work together as a team.
The dedication from staff in all areas of the home has been amazing.
Pradida is such a lovely lady, and Kirsten too. Ive not met all the staff but the ones I have met are all so kind. And make it a plesent experience when we do go to visit our beloved nan. Thankyou
My mum had been in Dawson lodge since April this year, she has always been shown so much kindness & love from all the staff. We as a family are so grateful because it has taken a lot of worry away from us. We are always recommending the home to our family & friends who have elderly relations. Thank you so much.
Every member of staff are the kindest, friendliest people just like a family member, but at the same time professional I would highly recommend Dawson Lodge and do, to family + friends (***** 5 STARS)
I have always found management and staff very helpful and friendly and hard working, nothing is too much trouble for them and this I would relate to management Kirsten and all staff.
Mum has had many years experience in the care sector she knows what the good, the bad and indifferent looks like.
Her words to me today were, " I'm so happy here it's a lovely place" high praise so quickly into the move which I know was daunting for her.
Mum has noticed how efficient everyone is, nothing is too much trouble, the way she is cared for and handled with the personal touches and acts of kindness.
The catering team deserve a mention, the meals and the alternative offering on the menu is outstanding. Mum loved to cook so is very critical when it comes to food, she has had her 1st soft egg in 3 years! What a triumph!
The atmosphere at Dawson lodge is apparent for all to see, it feels like one big happy family.
Carers are meant to catch our loved ones when they fall, my mum has been well and truly caught. Thankyou Dawson Lodge.
My parents went to Dawson Lodge for respite care but it soon became apparent that the care they needed was permanent. Kirsten and her team have been so welcoming and understanding from the very beginning. My dad has had several falls and they always take great care of him. They receive delicious meals everyday better than a 5 star hotel. They have a wide range of activities every week. We enjoy seeing the posts on social media, it helps to stay connected with them
After reading many positive reviews about Dawsons Lodge we decided to visit. From the moment we walked in we knew straight away this was the perfect place for our mum. It is a wonderful and well run home with a warm, kind and friendly atmosphere. Every resident is clearly treated with genuine compassion, dignity and respect. The home is bright, spotlessly clean and very welcoming, with beautiful outdoor space and a lovely garden. We were impressed by the wide range of daily activities, which is tailored to suit everyone's interests and abilities. What stood out most was the exceptional team. From the manager to every member of staff, everyone is professional, approachable and supportive to both residents and families. They took time to understand our mum's physical and emotional needs in detail, nothing was overlooked. Everyone we met seemed happy and well cared for. We feel hugely relieved that our mum will be moving here, knowing that she will be in the best possible hands.
Mum has been in the care of the excellent team and staff at the above home since early December last year due to her dementia diagnosis. During this time we've found the team very supportive and caring for the whole family as well as mum. They treat mum with great warmth, dignity and a tremendous effort goes into making her feel at home. I have no qualms in recommending Dawson Lodge to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation to us looking for care for a relative 10/10
From the very first moment my grandad and I walked through the doors of Dawson Lodge, our anxiety about him needing full-time care disappeared. We were welcomed with genuine warmth, friendly smiles and reassurance, and every question was answered honestly in such a positive, person-centred way that we immediately felt he was in safe hands.
Telling my grandad he was moving into a care home was incredibly hard, but showing him pictures, helping him make his room feel like home and talking about the activities he could enjoy has truly brought him back to life.
The staff are simply incredible, from regular updates and prompt doctor appointments to encouraging him to take part in activities and embracing his love of music and cheeky personality.
A special thank you to the amazing managers Kirsten and Cara, and to every carer, seniors, maintenance, domestic, admin and kitchen staff member. Thank you, Dawson Lodge, for giving my grandad not just care, but a true home.
The atmosphere itself feels bright and engaging and there is always something happening, whether it's a new activity, a small group experience or a moment of one to one connection.
Meals are a standout: thoughtfully prepared, full of choice and served with the kind of care that makes dining feel like an occasion rather than an obligation.
In addition to this, respect is shown to every resident. Personal touches-especially on birthdays-add warmth and show how well the staff truly know the people that they care for.
Review of Dawson Lodge
Dawson Lodge is tastefully decorated and set in a pleasant rural environment, surrounded by trees, fields, and well-kept gardens. Horses and donkeys can often be seen from the lounge area, adding to the charm of the setting.
All the staff are friendly, efficient, and caring, treating both residents and visitors with kindness and dignity. The cleaners are always attentive and quick to respond to any spillages, keeping everything spotless.
The food is excellent - restaurant quality - with a wide variety of meals available from a daily menu. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks are offered throughout the day.
In summary, Dawson Lodge is a lovely, welcoming place to be.
It may not be the most modern of care homes but it is by far the most friendly, caring and welcoming place, and that is what I wanted for my husband, a home from home. All of the staff from management down have been so caring, nothing is too much trouble and they care for myself and my two daughters, we feel at home too. Just perfect.
Just been to the annual BBQ at Dawson Lodge and the staff were exceptional, they worked very hard to ensure all residents and their guests were looked after and the food was fantastic. The care has improved over the last few months since my last review. The staff are very friendly and helpful and I would recommend Dawson Lodge if you are looking for a well run, kind and friendly home for your loved ones.
This all changed dramatically the day she visited Dawson Lodge, she called me on the way home and cried with happiness.
She knew her father would be well looked after instantly and this put her at ease.
I visit my father in law at the weekend with my wife and I could not believe the night and day difference to his previous home. It was clean, bright, amazing staff, so attentive. His room is so bright and airy, overlooking the garden. In my own words I wanted to move in. All the meals look amazing with a fresh and varied choice.
We are really looking forward to this Sunday as we have been invited for lunch for Father's Day, and can't wait for the summer bbq.
Hats off to the manager, receptionist and the team you are doing a fantastic job.
When I visited before my father's arrival, the receptionist showed me around and I even got to talk to residents. She made sure that I was happy and that Dawson Lodge could meet dad's needs. Which it did in bucket loads.
Dad was greeted at the door on arrival by them, who I was also impressed with their care and compassion and attention to detail to make sure dad settled. He felt at home and I was so happy.
Dad and I both shed a tear at finally finding a beautiful place to stay with amazing staff.
The home is super clean and inviting, with amazing outdoor space and garden.
They have well organised activities outside of the home and also multiple daily activities within, something to suit everyone.
As Powers of Attorney for our friend who went into Dawson Lodge in September 2024, we chose the Lodge because of its reputation and because it was highly recommended by relatives of a previous resident we knew personally. We have found the reputation well-founded, and our friend has received nothing but great care and friendliness from all the staff since going there. She is very much regarded as an individual, not just a resident. Despite her many difficulties with dementia, she remains happy and well settled.
Professional and helpful staff. Residents wants and needs are always top of staff's need, this of course results in residents being happy and well cared for.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 07 June 2024Requires improvement
- CaringGood
- EffectiveGood
- ResponsiveRequires improvement
- SafeGood
- Well-ledRequires improvement
Inspection ratings
We rate most services according to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led they are, using four levels:
- Outstanding - The service is performing exceptionally well.
- Good - The service is performing well and meeting our expectations.
- Requires Improvement - The service isn't performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve.
- Inadequate - The service is performing badly and we've taken action against the person or organisation that runs it.
- Not rated - we have not yet rated this area of the service, this is normally because the assessments we have carried out have been focused on other key questions.
Bed Vacancies
3 Bed Vacancies
Posted: 27 July 2026We currently have three vacancies for care. Please contact Dawson Lodge directly for further details.
News (3) & Events (0)
- 23 Jan 2026
Anchor’s Dawson Lodge care home in Southampton has welcomed pupils from Woodlands Community College as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award, creating meaningful connections across generations. Over recent months,...
- 19 Dec 2025
Residents and colleagues at Anchor care homes across Hampshire are embracing the festive spirit in style. From crafting Christmas decorations and singing carols, to decorating trees and baking festive treats,...
- 09 Oct 2024
Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, has received platinum status in the RSPCA’s annual PawPrints Awards for the second year in a...
There are no upcoming events for Dawson Lodge.
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Dawson Lodge.
Meet the Team (0)
There are no Team Members posted yet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dawson Lodge
What types of Care is Dawson Lodge registered for?
Older Person Care, Dementia are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.
How many Rooms does Dawson Lodge have?
There are 43 Single Rooms.
What are the Facilities & Services at Dawson Lodge?
Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public 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 Dawson Lodge to the centre of Southampton?
3.9 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.
Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Dawson Lodge to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Dawson Lodge has an Enhanced Service -more info.