Swimbridge House Nursing Home

Welcombe Lane, Swimbridge, Barnstaple EX32 0QT
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9.6 80 Reviews
  • Swimbridge House Nursing Home, Barnstaple
Swimbridge House Nursing Home is a 52-bed nursing home, for those over 65, with a very homely atmosphere and plenty of personal attention.

The Home offers nursing, residential and respite care in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, where the physical and mental well-being of each resident is looked after in a warm and welcoming environment. The Home also specialises in dementia care and is accredited for the ‘Six Steps’ End-of-Life Care. The home is registered with the Care Quality Commission and is rated as ‘Good’.

The home is situated just outside the North Devon village of Swimbridge in a scenic rural setting, close to the A361 link road and in between the regional centre of Barnstaple and South Molton.

To help decide if Swimbridge House is a suitable choice, they provide a free trial day where potential residents can experience first-hand the benefits of the Home.

Their VISION is to be a warm and welcoming Home where everyone matters.

Their VALUES are:
WELCOMING - A positive environment where everyone is respected and treated as individuals.
CARING - With warmth and understanding in a secure and happy environment with qualified engaged staff and strong leadership.
HONESTY - Build and maintain strong relationships by being open and transparent.
CHOICES - Understand and support individual needs by providing person-centred care.
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 52 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • Bariatric Care/Obesity
  • Convalescent Care

Facilities

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

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1250
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1250
  • Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £1250
  • Self-Funded Nursing Dementia Care: from £1250
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1500
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1500
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care: from £1500
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Dementia Care: from £1500

Fees will be based on assessment of care needs by the home, and will also depend on size of the room and wet room availability.
Nursing care fees are exclusive of the FNC contributions by NHS to the home. Private contribution contribution for Nursing Care is similar as for Residential Care.

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Swimbridge House Nursing Home to find out the exact price for your requirements.

Funding Types Accepted

  • Self Funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

Support you may be entitled to

If you chose a care home based in England, you may be eligible for NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC), which helps cover the cost of nursing. This is worth £254.06 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.

Good to Know

Owner

  • Vaneal Ltd

Person in charge

  • Martine Butler (Registered Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Open for everyone: nursing care, residential care, respite and dementia
  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Year Purpose Built: 1996
  • Last Refurbishment: 2019
  • Number of floors: 2

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (52)
  • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
  • Single Rooms with Ensuite Wet Room (25)

Visiting

  • The home is allowing visitors to residents, although there may be restrictions for infection control reasons. Please call the home to discuss current policy.

Parking

  • There is plenty on-side parking available, including for disability vehicles.

Swimbridge House Nursing Home Reviews (80)

9.6

Swimbridge House Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.594) out of 10, based on 20 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Swimbridge House Nursing Home has 80 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
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Reviewer Connection to Swimbridge House Nursing Home
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Total of 80, showing 21-40
Review from Alan D (Husband of Resident) published on 8 August 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
During her five month stay at Swimbridge House Nursing Home, my wife received wonderful care from all the nurses and carers. From the day she arrived, she was made to feel welcome and was treated as being very special. For most people, it is a difficult decision to go into a care home, but it was made
to appear seamless and a 'home from home' atmosphere was created, not only by the staff, but also by being able to personalise the room with familiar items from home such as furniture, pictures and photographs. The staff are professional, compassionate and empathetic. Nothing is too much trouble.
The catering arrangements are well established and the chefs are able to react instantly to change a diet or prepare a meal outside of normal dining times. The buildings and gardens are well maintained, with an on-site maintenance man who is able to respond quickly to any issues, to ensure the continued smooth running of the care home. Her end of life care was exceptional. Well done to everyone.
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Review from Allan H (Nephew of Resident) published on 18 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My aunt died with dignity, and the teams around the nursing home, including the clinical lead, have restored my faith in the care system. The senior leadership team should be very proud of the whole team who made this possible for my aunt and me.
My aunt was very unwell, and I’m pleased she left this
world not in pain! I promised her that we'd do this together, and Swimbridge House has delivered it for us.
If you're looking for a nursing home at the moment? It's an extremely daunting experience! This operation will guide you and hold your hand through the whole experience and communicate with you at every step.
It's a very slick nursing operation that actually cares.
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Review from S T (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 April 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Mum received exceptional care during her time at Swimbridge House Nursing Home. We cannot fault them in any way. Every member of staff went above and beyond in their care for Mum and ourselves as a family. Communication was excellent, and we cannot thank them enough for supporting us during the past
few months.
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Review from Jackie G (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 February 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My dad had a happy five months at Swimbridge House Nursing Home until his death in January. He settled in and enjoyed the time he had there, Dad often commented how good the meals and food were - he looked forward to that daily and the hot chocolate before bed, the best he ever had. The staff were extremely
friendly and well trained and the support he received was outstanding - everyone treated him with dignity and respect. I highly recommend Swimbridge House to anyone that needs care or nursing care. Thank you to the management team and staff.
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Review from C P (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 February 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Competent, warm, enthusiastic, motivated, care, well informed, meticulous attention to detail of care plan, yet awareness of central, overarching key need. A holistic approach, understanding by excellent nursing/care understanding. Responsive to constructive suggestions, attentive, kind and humane.
A wonderfully integrated team approach to individual care. Our dad received excellent, compassionate attention to his needs and personality.
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Review from J H (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 January 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
A warm and friendly care home. Mum arrived during the pandemic, and the staff were welcoming. Visiting restrictions were already in place, with regular testing t ensure residents remained safe. The rooms were pleasant, with a varied choice in the menu. I was always kept informed if Mum was unwell or
had any concerns. The nurses were always happy to reassure you of her health and well-being. The activity team updated Mum on their programme of events. Also, fundraising events were held, inviting friends and family to attend. The staff always encouraged Mum to join the events and socialise. The overall care and support which we experienced from the home and staff were excellent.
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Review from Helen H (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff treated Mum kindly, carefully and with dignity. She was always well looked after, as were we. There was always someone available to talk through Mum's deteriorating condition and end of life was discussed with us and dealt with in an appropriate manner.
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Review from Christine B (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff were very kind to my father and they treated him well. Dad had 10 months in Swimbridge House, during this time dad was cared for by a wonderful team, I was also always made to feel welcome. Covid and the restrictions were challenging for everyone but the manager and her team responded well.
I am so grateful to all the staff that cared for dad so well.
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Review from Adam W (Son of Resident) published on 22 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very kind and thoughtful staff. Room was always clean and warm, and well-equipped for my father's needs. Food was always available and looked nice. My father was well looked after and I have no complaints about the home whatsoever.
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Review from J T (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 December 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother was not in for very long but for the short time, she was there staff we friendly, caring and supportive. They kept me informed at what was happening. I felt I could talk to them whenever I needed.
Due to Covid it was a difficult time.
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Review from Nick K (Son of Resident) published on 23 November 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very clean and efficient.
Very friendly and helpful staff.
I have no doubt that Mother is being taken very good care of.
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Review from E D (Daughter of Resident) published on 10 November 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mum was in Swimbridge House for just over five years. Throughout this time, she was extremely well cared for, and I felt so very fortunate to have such a good quality home within walking distance. I would pop in most days if I could and was always made to feel welcome. During the challenges of Covid,
I felt confident that the residents were kept as safe as possible. The relatives were kept informed, and everything was done to enable safe visits. As Mum reached the end of her life, I was phoned regularly, although due to Covid restrictions, couldn't visit until her last few days. At this time, the staff were kind, gentle and sensitive, and we really felt their compassion and love. An exemplary home, I couldn't have wished for better.
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Review from Michael H (Son of Resident) published on 16 August 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My mother was a resident at Swimbridge House Nursing Home for four years. She received outstanding care and support during a period when she needed nursing care. Staff make time to stop and talk and try to allow as much independence as is safely possible. As a relative, I also received support as I
always felt able to ask difficult questions. The ethos at Swimbridge is very much one of a team effort, and I did feel included. The new facilities allow for more socialising that helps to provide a homely atmosphere.
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Review from Elaine I (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 August 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother spent the final year of her life at Swinbridge House. She always spoke highly of the staff and the care she received - nothing was too much trouble. She enjoyed her meals, and the daily activities were varied and stimulating. I would not hesitate to recommend Swinbridge House Nursing Home.
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Review from Olly C (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 July 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Swimbridge House Nursing Home have been absolutely brilliant with my mum. She has improved immensely since she became a resident and honestly looks 10 years younger! She is very happy and settled as a resident and it is a joy to visit her and see her beaming smile! The nursing home is always immaculately
kept and staff are always extremely friendly, helpful and super caring.
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Review from Geoffrey B (Respite Resident) assisted by family/friend published on 21 May 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Of the three care homes I have stayed in, Swimbridge is clearly the best. They are welcoming, caring although sometimes under pressure, provide an overall exemplary standard.
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Review from Christine R (Wife of Resident) published on 5 May 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have marked all boxes as "excellent" as this is an honest opinion of Swimbridge House Nursing Home. My husband, until his death, was four months in the home. The staff, without exception, were caring, patient and kind and showed my husband dignity and respect. His end of life care was well managed,
and as a family, we were kept informed and also treated with great kindness. I would recommend Swimbridge House.
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Review from Debbie W (Daughter of Resident) published on 15 April 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since dad's arrival, Sept 19, accommodated in his large ground floor room with ensuite wet room. I've been so impressed by the ongoing cleanliness of the home plus the care, compassion and friendliness of staff with residents and relatives. Since March
'20 and Covid restrictions, they chose to impose
early for the wellbeing of residents. I've still been encouraged to communicate with Dad online, which he soon adapted to in lockdown at 90! It gave us both weekly quality time until they built the 1st of 3 different visitor centres, each adapted to suit guidelines which bring me to now.
Dad has regained the confidence to pursue his hobbies of birdwatching in the lovely rural area and gardening initially with staff help and other interests. Something I thought I'd never see.
If a relative contacts them, they are so helpful and will always try to realistically accommodate needs or requests. It's such a happy place with caring owners, manager and staff. Like one big happy family!
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Review from Andrew S (Son of Resident) published on 12 April 2021 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are delighted with the care that she is receiving. The staff are wonderful, and nothing is too much trouble. Our mother/mother-in-law gives us glowing reports of the food and the people here. She enjoys the company and friendliness of everyone and is no longer lonely. She is very well cared for and
back to her normal self. She looks so much better than she did. She likes the activities and the parties. There is nowhere better!
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Review from Pearl W (Wife of Resident) published on 6 November 2020 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot speak too highly of Swimbridge House Nursing Home. My husband was a resident for 12 months, being given end of life care. Not only was he very well cared for in a happy, friendly and loving environment, but I was always made to feel very welcome when visiting.
As my husband's life drew to
a close, he was cared for very sensitively and professionally. I was with him when he died and in my grief was shown great compassion and love by all the staff and for which I thank them so much.
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Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.594)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.594) out of 10 for Swimbridge House Nursing Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.6 out of 5 from 20 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 20 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:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.594 for Swimbridge House Nursing Home is calculated as follows: ( (147 Excellents x 5) + (79 Goods x 4) + (8 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 234 Ratings = 4.594
  2. 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 Swimbridge House Nursing Home is based on 20 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 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
    2. 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 52 registered maximum number of service users is 10.4, which has been reached with 20 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 29 Jan 2019

Overall Good

  • Caring Good
  • Effective Good
  • Responsive Good
  • Safe Good
  • Well-led Good
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.

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

Meet the Team (4)

Martine

Martine Butler

Job Title: Home Manager Joined: 2021

Martine is a qualified nurse with over 30 years experience of working within the Health and Social care sectors. Prior to joining Swimbridge House Nursing Home in August 2021, she worked as a senior regulatory inspector, quality and compliance manager, and care home manager within the independent sector and with Devon County Council, and most recently as Nurse Educator and Safeguarding Lead.


Martine’s skills and experiences have equipped her with a strong commitment to continuous quality improvement, a process that she aims will become synonymous with the reputation of Swimbridge House.

Anita

Anita Nelson

Job Title: Senior Health Care Assistant Joined: 2013

I joined Swimbridge House over 10 years ago and have worked in the care sector throughout most of my working life in hospital and community settings. Swimbridge House is a home-from-home environment offering all levels of individual support to all of its residents and families it is a great place to work. We are committed to providing the best support we can. Every day you will hear laughter and see a sea of smiles; we also offer free hugs to everyone. All our staff are committed to providing the best care and experience for our residents and their families and I am proud to say I am a member of that team.

Reka

Reka Lukacs

Job Title: Nurse Joined: 2014

Swimbridge is a warm and friendly care home, where the staff aim to provide a “real home” for all residents, personal comfort, safety and a high standard of care. The staff are always smiling and helpful. About half of the staff have been working together for more than four years now. We support and motivate each other and also we learn from the experiences of others, forming a strong team.

Nichola

Nichola Hussell

Job Title: Personal Assistant Joined: 2015

I’ve worked at Swimbridge House for just over three years now and it’s a friendly, happy place to be – for residents, their families and staff. Everyone pulls together as a team to make sure that the residents and their families get the help and support they need and deserve. Everyone has their role to play to make the home the place it is – warm, welcoming and caring.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Swimbridge House Nursing Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Swimbridge House Nursing Home has an Enhanced Service - more info.