Fornham House

Fornham St Martin, Bury St Edmunds IP31 1SR
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9.6 108 Reviews
  • Fornham House, Bury St Edmunds
Fornham House is located just a couple of miles from Bury St Edmunds, in the pretty village of Fornham St Martin. The home has extensive grounds with views over the surrounding countryside. The garden can be enjoyed by residents and visitors, with ample seating areas surrounded by colourful flower beds, mature trees, and a large pond with water features, aquatic plants and fish.

Fornham House provides seven lounges, including the Constable Lounge where many social activities take place, and these are complemented by patio and garden areas for summer outdoor relaxation. Accommodation is offered in generous, tastefully decorated single rooms (71 rooms in total), 63 of which have En-Suite facilities and 9 further with toilet and sink En-suite facilities, thereby providing residents with the necessary facilities for a quality life in later years. Although all rooms are fully furnished, residents are encouraged to bring items of furniture and personal possessions with them so that their room can be a true ‘home from home’.

The home now has a new purpose-built 17-bed extension. The design is beautiful, spacious yet intimate. It is safe, communal living at its best, with emphasis on individual care needs. Spacious corridors give accessibility from every area in the home, and allows residents to walk freely and safely. Access to the large decked area is gained through doors leading from the dining area. Doors in the corridor and lounge gives access to a peaceful, intimate indoor garden.

Residents are welcome to develop this garden further. This is where many residents will have the opportunity to potter at their hearts content. The beautiful soft colours of the walls and carpets will compliment all of your personal items, making it really feel like home.

Care Provided

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 88 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
  • 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 £1450
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1450
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1450
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1450

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Fornham House 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

  • Stuart Coleman (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (88)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (78)
Total of 108, showing 1-20
9.6

Fornham House has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.634) out of 10, based on 22 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Fornham House has 108 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

You are well looked after. Care is very good. I have no complaints.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you for taking the time to submit a review of the care you receive at Fornham house. I am pleased to read you are happy with the care

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

During my mums tenure at Fornham House the team have gone above and beyond to provide exceptional care. Whilst mum was mobile the array of activities offers to residents and their families is second to non and keep residents entertained. Since mum has become unwell the due care and attention has been
outstanding they have done everything and more to accommodate her needs.The senior carers have always made sure we has a family are well informed. The day and night carers are always friendly and no ask is very too much. Even the chefs have outperformed by making specific urgent meals that she can consume (whilst also catering for 83 other residents and staff)!

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review of you experience of Fornham house. I am very pleased to read that you had such a positive experience, I will pass your comments to the team here who I am sure will love reading your comments.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I can not thank the Manager and her wonderful carers for the fantastic care and love they showed my mum.
Mum loved meeting everyone in the sitting room and enjoyed the great food that is served too them, absolutely fantastic. Mum received her end of life care with them and the care was excellent we
were informed regularly of any changes in medication or Dr's visits, we were always greeted with kindness and compassion. I will always be grateful to Fornham House for the care, love and respect they gave to my mum.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for leaving this review, I am pleased that you was happy with the care your mother received at Fornham house. I will make sure the team hear your wonderful feedback.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Fornham House staff care very much about all aspects of making sure my Uncle is safe and happy. His birthday in the care home was one to remember, and they made a real fuss of him, which was lovely to see. He tells me the food is delicious and all the staff are helpful and friendly. It is a real pleasure
to have him here, where we know he is safe and cared for.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review of your experiences at Fornham house, I am glad that your experience has been a positive one. It was a pleasure for us to be involved in the birthday celebrations. I will make sure the staff read your kind comments.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Our mum was looked after by the staff at Fornham House for the last year of her life. We made her room look and feel like home from home, and we were happy with the welcome, care and support that she was given by the team who looked after her. Mum's final months were very hard, and the team worked closely
and sensitively with us to support Mum and us through this very difficult time.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you for taking the time to submit a review for Fornham house. I am pleased to hear the team supported sensitively. I will pass your kind comments to the team.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My wife has been in Fornham House Care Home for the last 16 months. She is pleased with the way the staff treat her. She is also pleased that she has a choice of meals which are always good.The entertainment provided is excellent and there are always staff to make sure the residents are fully occupied.
Yesterday was her 93rd birthday and all the staff went out of their way to make it a day to remember. Both my son and I are pleased that we picked this care home for my wife.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for taking the time to submit this review. I am very pleased you are happy with the home and your wife is settled here. I will pass on your kind words to the staff.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

We moved Dad to Fornham House a week before Easter, as we felt that with the progression of his dementia, he needed more dedicated nursing care. After visiting several other nursing homes, we decided that Fornham House was the right choice. We were impressed by the overall atmosphere, the facilities,
and the warmth and professionalism of the staff.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you for taking the time to submit a review for Fornham house. I am glad that you were happy with the facilities, I will make sure the staff read your lovely comments.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My 98 year old Mother he as been in Fornham House for over 3 months now.
The staff and carers are first class they are friendly and very supportive I can not praise them highly enough,they don't just turn up to do their work they do that and go beyond as well.
Most days they are doing activities with
the residents which keeps their minds alert and also some activities to help with movement, they also have singers come in to sing to the residents as well .
The rooms the residents stay in are very good , the food at Fornham house is very good, and my mother particularly loves the tea and cakes they serve in the afternoons, I can honestly say I do not think my mother could be on a better care home.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you for submitting a review following your experience at Fornham House. I am so pleased that your mother enjoys the food, and in particular our homemade cakes. I will pass your comments to the staff team, who will, I am sure, enjoy reading your comments.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are so pleased we found Fornham House. My mother struggled at home, and now, at Fornham House, she has been transformed. She is brighter, happier and joining in with activities that we never thought she would do. The staff are so kind; they know her, take the time to chat to her and make her feel
safe and secure. Her medical needs are met diligently and professionally. I cannot recommend Fornham House highly enough

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave Fornham house a review. I am so pleased that you are happy with the care your mother has received during her time here. I will make sure that the staff receive your kind praise.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have visited my friend for the first time in a couple of months. He is very happy and settled. The staff seem very kind and friendly. The home feels like a home, very calm. The staff all smiled and wished me good morning. I feel at peace that my friend is happy and cared for.

Reply from Stuart Coleman, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you very much for taking the time to leave Fornham house a review. I am glad your friend has settled well. I will pas your comments to the team.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 1.0 out of 5

My father who is 102 was treated as if he had dementia, which he does not. His personal treatment was very basic . They got him up in the morning before 5 a.m.
He was made to wear a catheter & a nappy to reduce the need for the restricted carers to administer to his toilet needs. They made no effort
to get my dad mobile. A weekly visit from a NHS physio is hardly enough. He was abandoned in the main lounge surrounded by dementia patients & so with noone to talk to. Sometimes he was sat in an uncomfortable wheelchair for hours causing a nasty sore to develop on his bottom which they showed little concern for. I requested that his dry skin on his legs be creamed twice a day. This was not done. Thankfully I found him a place in another care home.
My God what a difference. You read horror stories about care homes. Fornham House is certainly a nightmare. The new care home is a dream come true. Please avoid Fornham House at all costs. It's full of shirkers and liars and just a terrible place.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother recently died aged 96 years old after being confined to her bed for 3 weeks. She had advanced dementia, but at all times, she was treated with dignity and respect. All the staff in St. Genevieve Unit were so kind and thoughtful to both my mother and to me. Her bedding was changed most days
towards the end, and staff popped in to see her regularly. My heartfelt thanks to all the staff for making her stay over the past year so positive.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

So happy my auntie resides at Fornham House. It feels as she has a brand new life and she appears so content. She easily made new friends and is looked after by amazing staff every single day and night. Management was so helpful in any advice and answers to my questions, I am forever grateful! There
is so much going on in terms of activities that makes me want to join in! Food is great, I would definitely highly recommend this care home, it has not only good qualities but most important this unique family feeling as soon as you walk inside!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have been very impressed with the communication from the staff at Fornham House. They keep me informed about my mom's progress and are always available to answer any questions I have. I feel confident that my mom is in good hands.
Thank you.

Reply from Dagmara Kaminska, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for such great comments and it is a pleasure!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother-in-law has settled in very well in the Fornham House. It's good to see that the carers put their whole heart into their work, the manager is very helpful and understanding, nothing is impossible and the food served to the residents is very good. Clean rooms and the entire facility. I really
recommend it, the house is full of warmth and positive energy.

Reply from Dagmara Kaminska, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for your review much appreciated! I will pass it on to the team!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I visited my friend at Fornham House I was very impressed by the overall feel of the home. They were welcoming to me and my friend was very happy and contended. The carers who I met were very helpful and kind. Lovely experience.

Reply from Dagmara Kaminska, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much I will pass it on to the team!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My aunt has been at Fornham House for exactly a year. Over this period I have seen her settle in well this is due to family support but most of all the dedication of the care staff which also includes kitchen staff, domestic staff and management. My relative is bedridden so depends on frequent visits
to her room for both personal care and mental stimulation. She has dementia so contact with people who provide conversation is paramount. She is maintaining her weight due to the good food provided by the chef and kitchen staff. I was unable to visit on her recent birthday an event I never miss. When I rang her that day she said "I have had a lovely day". The staff all went the extra mile, she even had her hair done for her Birthday. As her niece, I am truly grateful for the continued care and respect all the staff show her. Thank you so much.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My sisters and I thought Fornham's care of our Mum to be exceptional. The staff were always cheery and professional when caring for mum giving her great dignity. Nothing seemed to be too much trouble or off-putting for the carers. We thought highly of the stimulating activities and individual attention
that she received. Her love of singing was quickly picked up and she enjoyed many opportunities to join in with the various artists who performed there. We got to know the staff well and always felt welcome when visiting Fornham. The grounds are very accessible for wheelchairs with some lovely birds and plants which mum enjoyed seeing when we took her outside. The staff were always very helpful on the phone at any time we rang which was greatly appreciated as we all live some way away. They were also a great support towards the end of mum's life guiding us gently through her last few days. Mum liked having her hair and nails done which made her smile.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My sister was admitted to Fornham House directly from the hospital on January 27th for 2 weeks of respite care. Unfortunately, she did not rally us as we hoped she would, despite the excellent care she received it soon became apparent that she should have had the care sooner. The staff at Fornham House
were loving and caring and did their utmost to make her comfortable in her final days. They were also very kind and understanding to me and my family. Thank you.

Reply from Dagmara Kaminska, Home Manager at Fornham House

Thank you so much for such kind words and that we were able to offer our love and comfort!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My friend has been at Fornham House for the past few months and I must say, he struggled at home and was progressing with a diagnosis of dementia.
They have done wonders with him, I feel our relationship has improved and we have quality time back! The manager was so helpful and made the process so
easy for him and me to adjust. The food and team is also amazing, nothing is ever a trouble for anyone at Fornham House. Thank you all!

Reply from Dagmara Kaminska, Home Manager at Fornham House

Oh! How nice of you, thank you and thank you for being such involved in our service!

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Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.634)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.634) out of 10 for Fornham House is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.6 out of 5 from 22 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 21 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 4.634 for Fornham House is calculated as follows: ( (198 Excellents x 5) + (44 Goods x 4) + (4 Satisfactorys x 3) + (2 Poors x 2) + (9 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 257 Ratings = 4.634

  • 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 Fornham House is based on 21 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 88 registered maximum number of service users is 17.6, which has been reached with 21 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: 5 Dec 2018

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

5 Bed Vacancies

posted 15 Aug 2025

We provide permanent and respite accommodation for individuals with residential, respite, palliative, residencial dementia care and specialist care needs. Our services include complete en suite rooms and basin with WC rooms. Additionally, we offer privately funded, local authority, and NHS-funded placements.

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Awards / Recognitions (9)

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Meet the Team (9)

Stuart

Stuart Coleman

Job Title: Home Manager

Joined: 2025

I love the positive atmosphere here and enjoy getting to know our residents and their families. It’s a joy to see the team providing such thoughtful care each day. I’ve completed my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership and Management, along with a range of other care-related qualifications and experience which I use everyday in my role at Fornham House.

Magda

Magda Plant

Job Title: Assistant Manager

Joined: 2012

I love coming to work each day, it really feels like a home from home. I’ve built great connections across the team and enjoy supporting residents from their very first day. I’ve completed my Level 5 in Adult Social Care and training in end-of-life care.

Daniel

Daniel Phillips

Job Title: Head Chef

"I believe that it's important to be able to form good relationships with people, be good at cooking, budgeting and menu planning to be a successful head chef in a care home. My favourite part of my day is cooking to a high standard and receiving positive feedback from residents."

Stephanie

Stephanie Peacock

Job Title: Dementia Unit Lead

Joined: 2019

The home has such a warm, friendly feel, it’s like being part of a big family, and we all work so well together. I enjoy caring for residents each day and supporting them through their individual dementia journeys. I’ve completed a pre-nursing course in Ireland and my NVQ Level 3 in Adult Social Care here in the UK.

Charlie

Charlie Plant

Job Title: Unit Manager

Joined: 2018

I’ve built strong connections with healthcare professionals who support our residents, and I’m proud to be part of such a respectful and supportive team. I’ve completed my Level 3 in Adult Social Care, along with advanced training in End of Life care and Respect wishes. With over 10 years’ experience at Fornham House, I’ve grown a lot in my role and truly value the relationships I’ve built along the way.

Jemima

Jemima Gaskin

Job Title: Receptionist

Joined: 2023

I have over six years of care experience, which has given me the knowledge and empathy to support people living with dementia. I really enjoy meeting new people and having conversations with our residents. It's amazing what you can learn from a simple chat. I enrich their lives by listening, being present, and building strong relationships with both residents and their families.

Roela

Roela Vaughan

Job Title: Administrator

Joined: 2024

I’ve worked in the care industry since 2008, starting as a care assistant and progressing to Deputy Manager. After taking a break for family commitments, I’m really happy to be back doing what I love. I enjoy being there for residents and their families from the very beginning, helping them through the admission process and watching them settle and grow during their time with us. Building strong relationships is at the heart of what I do, and I take pride in making sure everything from contracts to care plans is handled smoothly and with care.

Mark

Mark Cummings

Job Title: Maintenance Lead

Joined: 2023

I love fixing things and working in a great team. With 30 years of ex-forces experience, plus a background in painting, decorating, gardening, and first response, I bring a wide range of skills to my role, and always make time for a chat or dance with the residents!

Annaka

Annaka De Freitas

Job Title: Front of House

Joined: 2022

I love making a difference in residents' lives and supporting their independence, whether it's with daily tasks, online shopping, or a friendly chat. With over 20 years in hospitality, I’m passionate about creating a warm and supportive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fornham House

What types of Care is Fornham House registered for?

Older Person Care & Dementia are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Fornham House have?

There are 88 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Fornham House?

Own Furniture if required, 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 Fornham House to the centre of Bury St Edmunds?

1.9 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 Fornham House to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Fornham House has an Enhanced Service - more info.