Gainsborough Care Home

53 Ulwell Road, Swanage BH19 1LQ
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9.7 53 Reviews
  • Gainsborough Care Home, Swanage
Gainsborough Care Home offers a home for life in Swanage, providing affordable residential, respite and dementia care. Gainsborough is set in a picturesque Purbeck seaside town, just a stone’s throw from Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast.

After being completely refurbished to a very high standard Gainsborough is fully equipped to deal with a range of needs and requirements. Gainsborough has three comfortable lounges and the dining room mean there is plenty of space for group activities, or somewhere to find a quieter spot.

Residents and visitors are welcome to use the free Gainsborough wi-fi. Visitors often bring in their own devices and use the wi-fi to show loved ones videos and photos, and to play games.

There are bedrooms on the ground floor and the first floor. The first floor is fully accessible, by stairs or a lift.

All rooms have en-suites or a washbasin in the room. Some rooms have en-suite wet rooms. The rooms without en-suites have accessible bathrooms or wet rooms nearby.

Residents are encouraged to personalise their rooms with their own photos and furniture. Personal possessions help residents feel Gainsborough is a home-from-home, and provide extra stimulation and time for reminiscence.

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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 48 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life 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: £844 – £1470
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: £844 – £1470

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Gainsborough Care 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)

Good to Know

Person in charge

  • Dawn Hand (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No
  • Last Refurbishment: 2014

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (48)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (48)

Visiting

  • Visitors welcome anytime

Parking

  • Ample parking

Gainsborough Care Home Reviews (53)

Total of 53, showing 1-20
9.7

Gainsborough Care Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.693) out of 10, based on 10 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Gainsborough Care Home has 53 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 29
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Date Published

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Review from Allison F (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 August 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Thank you and your lovely staff for making Mum's transition to full time care so easy, showing patience and kindness at all times
Mum feels settled, happy and very well cared for and this is down to you and all at Gainsborough - we can't thank you enough

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

It has been very stressful for all the families and residents of the care home that closed and we have been glad that we were able to help. Gainsborough tried to do all it could to help the transition go as smoothly as possible, and I'm very happy to read this review that confirms we did actually achieve this.

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Review from Sandra G (Friend of Resident) published on 25 July 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The manager & all the staff are extremely kind & helpful & always do all they can to make my friend feel happy & contented.After her initial distress on moving into a care home, she definitely now feels that Gainsborough is her home. Thank you Gainsborough Care Home.

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is really lovely to read, thank you. We do our best to try to ensure that all residents are happy and content. Our team is wonderful and are caring and kind and they do pay attention to detail.

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Review from Steven W (Son of Resident) published on 20 June 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum passed away peacefully on 5th June at Gainsborough, with family around her, after a happy two and a half months as a resident there. Suffering from Alzheimer's, she had become increasingly anxious and unhappy at her previous care home, but the move to the area lifted both her spirits and ours
(her three sons and our families) - it's clear to me this was down purely to the lovely attentive and cheerful staff and a better environment - a nice room with a view of the pretty garden. My heartfelt thanks and gratitude go to the team led by one member of staff in particular, who made her final months a peaceful and relaxed one - we will be forever in your debt for that, thank you. Xxx

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

Our dedicated team do everything they can to make the lives of our residents better, especially when they are at the end of their journey. Mum was a very special lady, and we are all very sad at her passing. However, we are all so very proud to have been apart of her life. We are very lucky to have a lovely home, and our beautiful garden gives all our residents and their families a place to enjoy.

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Review from Richard H (Son of Resident) published on 9 June 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Both mum and dad have been residents together, since mum's passing, dad has continued to be cared for with the same affection as when they were together. The staff have a rapport with him that definitely suits his personality. I feel able to greet the staff now more as friends now than as members of
a facility. Thank you.

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

Thank you for these kind words. We do all we can to learn about the residents we support so we can build a good relationship with them and their families. All our residents and their families are really important to us and all of them are part of the Gainsborough family.

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Review from Victoria M (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 June 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother who has vascular dementia has been at the Gainsborough Care Home since February 2025. She is so happy there, which I never thought I would be able to say! The staff have been excellent at helping her make the difficult transition from home to care home. I cannot speak highly enough of the
staff from admin to catering. The caters are wonderful and mum loves them all. From being confused and anxious she is now relaxed and feels safe. Her room is beautiful and she is able to have her own belongings there to make it more homely. Visitors are always welcome at any time.

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is a really wonderful review, thank you. Gainsborough is a really lovely home and we are very lucky to have a team which is really supportive and responsive to our residents and their families. As a team we have always been dedicated to ensuring that all our residents feel safe and their general health and well being is paramount.

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Review from Simon W (Son of Resident) published on 23 May 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My mother recently came to live at the Gainsborough after two and a half years in a different home, who after a less than happy time there they eventually admitted they were "unable to meet her needs". Since mum came to the Gainsborough she has become much happier, far less anxious and regained her
old sense of humour. The nice surroundings (choice of lounges, lots of light coming in, garden etc.) have contributed greatly, but so has the interaction with staff and the community feeling from relatives of other residents, which is generated by an overall feeling of a happy home and led by good management.

Reply from The Manager, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

We are very lucky to have a wonderful variety of absolutely amazing residents. They are all wonderful to be around and are all part of the Gainsborough family. We do our very best to give all our residents the attention they need and we try to encourage everyone to be part of social interactions. All of our residents are happy to be in Gainsborough, and we are lucky to have wonderful families interacting with other residents as well as their own loved one, in our lovely home.

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Review from Rosemary D (Wife of Resident) published on 1 May 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I would like to thank all the staff for the kindness shown to my husband. He has recently had several visitors who have all commented of the high standard of care that he receives. Personally I feel that the staff have also been very supportive and helpful towards me. A big thank you to you all.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is a very lovely read. The staff at Gainsborough have always been very responsive, and we have always done our best to ensure our residents receive the highest standard of care, encouragement and support.

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Review from Richard Y (Son of Resident) published on 16 November 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff make a real effort with my mum and genuinely seem to know her.
They made a big fuss of my mum on her birthday. She loves visits from Blue the dog.
The friendly banter with staff makes a big difference.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is a very reflective review as all staff make the effort to get to know our residents and their families and we all get involved with residents birthdays to make the day special.

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Review from Catherine B (Sister of Resident) published on 25 September 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My experience is one of good care for my sister. Whenever I visit her she is comfortable and clean, the staff are very friendly and know her by name. The management listens to any concerns I have about her which is extremely important to me. They answer all my questions regarding my sister and put my
mind at rest so that I can enjoy my visits with her. She is so much better now than when she first arrived from hospital, she interacts and has a better quality of life. Many thanks to all those at Gainsborough.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

Thank you for this wonderful review which is very reflective of our staff and care home.

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Review from Anthony D (Son of Resident) published on 21 August 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very pleased with service to/for resident mother and very consistent communication and care provision information with myself. Have very much had a positive experience with staff (both management and frontline).

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is a lovely, positive review and very reflective on the care and devotion we give to our residents.

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Review from Bernard T (Husband of Resident) published on 21 July 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I am happy for my wife to be a resident and be looked after.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

We are happy to be able to take care of all her needs and are glad she is staying with us here at Gainsborough Care Home.

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Review from Rosemary M (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 July 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A very friendly and helpful home. The staff not only look after the residents but also family and friends. Since my mother moved into the home, she is looking better and is very well looked after.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This review is really reflective of how much we really care about the residents, their families and friends and the staff. We really put a lot of effort into ensuring everybody's general well-being whilst in the home and really appreciate this being recognised by family members. Thank you.

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Review from C P (Son of Resident) published on 27 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Dad has been at Gainsborough Care Home for almost two years. After the initial upheaval of being moved there, he has settled in really quite well. Although he suffers from dementia, he interacts very well with the staff and them with him. There always seems to be smiles and laughter on both sides.
Dad
has put on weight as the food is very good and he is well-fed. I can say that I am very happy with the care that Dad receives at Gainsborough.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

We really appreciate feedback like this as the team do a wonderful job of caring for our residents. We do have a lot of laughter with our residents and the team interactions are second to none.

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Review from S S (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Caring, helpful staff alongside bright friendly rooms and regular entertainment. Social media postings are both reassuring and nice to receive.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is another wonderful and reflective review of our home and staff. We are striving to do our best in all areas to ensure the residents and staff have a better environment to live and work in.

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Review from J D (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5

Staff are always welcoming. My relative always looks presentable. Overall, the appearance of the home is good.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This wonderful resident has been with us since 2016. It has been a pleasure to be part of his journey. Our team work very hard to make the home a comfortable place and they care for every resident with the same dignity and respect they deserve.

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Review from Michael B (Son of Resident) published on 6 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum is cared for very well and we are always kept informed of her care and welfare. The staff are very caring and very friendly and Mum likes them all.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

This is a really true reflection of our home and team. Thank you. It is lovely for the team to read how appreciated they are.

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Review from E K (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum was swiftly admitted for respite care, with much kindness. All staff members treated her with care and kindness throughout her three-week stay.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

It is really good for the team to have such positive comments. They all do their very best to deliver care to our residents in a dignified and respectful way, whilst building good relationships with them and their families.

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Review from Clive T (Son of Resident) published on 19 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My stepfather has been wonderfully looked after at Gainsborough during his stay over the six months. Unfortunately, his Alzheimer's progressed meaning he needed more care than we were able to offer at home.
The staff have been wonderful, attentive and caring and can't praise them highly enough.
When
Dad, unfortunately, passed away over Christmas, it was peaceful and dignified and the staff were so helpful. They had the Doctor to attend just when needed and also kept us informed and updated.
There is no doubt this home is a credit - kept clean and tidy and the staff a credit to the caring profession.
Thank you to you all.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

Thank you so much for such a wonderful review, which is truly reflective of the hard work and dedication of all the team here at Gainsborough Care Home.

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Review from Mark W (Son of Resident) published on 9 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Through shortages of staff, PPE and groceries etc, the team at Gainsborough Care Home have coped admirably and with a smile. 10/10 for their attitude through adversity. Thank you all on behalf of my mum and her family for doing such a great job.

Reply from Corinne Pryer, Operations Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

Thank you very much for your kind comments about Gainsborough. We really appreciate your review, we will share with all the team which I'm sure will mean a lot to them.

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Review from Janette G (Stepdaughter of Resident) published on 13 June 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Because of Covid restrictions and the fact my stepmother is bed-bound my experience of Gainsborough Care Home as a whole has been limited. However mostly what I do witness is positive and my stepmother seems very happy with her care and that's what's important.
All staff have been friendly and helpful.

Reply from Dawn Hand, Registered Manager at Gainsborough Care Home

We are lucky to have a very good team at Gainsborough, who have worked very hard during Covid. We have always done our best to deliver an excellent service to our residents and their families and have done all we can through this difficult time to ensure the residents have our best attention at all times.

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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.693)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.693) out of 10 for Gainsborough Care Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 10 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 10 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 4.693 for Gainsborough Care Home is calculated as follows: ( (82 Excellents x 5) + (29 Goods x 4) + (3 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 114 Ratings = 4.693

  • 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 Gainsborough Care Home is based on 10 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 48 registered maximum number of service users is 9.6, which has been reached with 10 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.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 21 May 2025

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.

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Bed Vacancies

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

Meet the Team (1)

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Juliet Porter

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2017

Juliet has been working at Gainsborough Care Home since 2017 as an Administrator. During this time, Juliet has grown with the home and has been a valued team member, understanding the needs of the home and the residents.


In 2022 Dawn Hand became the new Registered Manager and appointed Juliet as her Deputy reinforcing the Management Team, new ideas and structure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gainsborough Care Home

What types of Care is Gainsborough Care Home registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition, Physical Disability & Visual / Hearing Impairment are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Gainsborough Care Home have?

There are 48 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Gainsborough Care Home?

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 are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Gainsborough Care Home to the centre of Swanage?

0.8 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 Gainsborough Care Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Gainsborough Care Home has an Enhanced Service - more info.