






Clarence House is a family-run care home with 26 bedrooms, which serves Dorset and surrounding areas. As a care home provider, they are registered with the Care Quality Commission and Dorset Local Authority, who continually scrutinise everything they do. They will inspect the home regularly to ensure that they meet essential standards of quality and safety.
They offer specialist care at Clarence House to assist people living with mild to moderate...
Care Provided by Clarence House
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 29 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
- Parkinson's Disease
- Stroke
- Palliative / End of Life Care
- Convalescent Care
Facilities
- Own Furniture if required
- Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
- Close to Local shops
- Near Public Transport
- Lift
- Stairlift
- Wheelchair Access
- Gardens
- Television point in own room
- Residents Internet Access
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Respite is for a minimum of 2 weeks. Chiropody and Hairdressing available at an extra charge. Local Authority funded accepted with an additional 'top up ' charge if needed.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Clarence House for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Contact Clarence House 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
- Southey Care Ltd
- Private Owned
Person in charge
- Neil Hardy (Registered Home Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Mixed (no single-gender units)
- Ages 65+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: Yes
- Year Purpose Built: 2000
- Last Refurbishment: 2021
- Number of floors: 2
Room Information
- Single Rooms (26)
- Couples/Companion Rooms (1)
- Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (1)
Visiting
- Visitors welcome any time. Time table of daily activities is you wish to call ahead so the person you are visiting does not miss out on the activity.
Parking
- Car park on site.
Clarence House Reviews (40)
Clarence House has a Review Score of 9.3 (9.296) out of 10, based on 12 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Clarence House has 40 reviews.
Unfortunately he recently passed away.
I really felt it was important to write a review following his passing, as we always felt he was valued and the staff made the best of his time at the home. In my wife's words, they're more like a family and it's less a business relationship.
It's not the biggest home, or the most modern, but the staff are caring, compassionate and we've felt have been very welcoming. My dad was never unhappy and in his early days at the home, was able to engage in the daily activities.
Thanks for looking after him and making his final days dignified. This has meant so very much to us.
Thank you so much for the kind review. It was a pleasure to have him stay with us for the past 2.5 years. It is always a sad time for us all when someone we cared for passes away, as they do become part of our family.
All management and staff were excellent and compassionate, nothing was too much trouble and we knew Mum was in very good hands and could deal with her complex needs. Their communication was excellent keeping us informed of her progress and setbacks, Clarence House is run and managed at all levels by healthcare angels in our personal opinion and would not hesitate recommending to anyone which was endorsed by other visitors we spoke to while visiting in the communal areas.
Thank you so much for taking the time to complete a feedback form at this difficult time, it was a pleasure to have mum stay with us even though it was for a shorter time than planned. The team and I appreciate your kind words and wish you all well.
Me, my daughter and my Nan had a lovely afternoon playing musical bingo. Sarah is a great host. The staff all make us welcome on every visit. My Nan looks settled and enjoys sitting in the lounge area participating in the games and is happy to watch as well. I always feel welcomed and staff will go out of their way to assist.
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback - It is always a pleasure to have family visit us and spend time. I appreciate you recognise all that we do to ensure loved ones are cared for.
I find Clarence House a very friendly home. The staff always welcome visitors with tea and biscuits. The gardens are lovely with nice chairs outside.
Thank you so much for taking the time to review our home, we value the input from loved ones. We strive to continually improve our surrounding's to make it feel homely and inviting.
My dad has been at this care home for just over 2 years. i visit him every week and have seen a massive improvement in the home in the last couple of months. Communication has improved and I am given an update on my dad's condition each time I visit. The staff are very friendly and I am always offered a drink when I arrive. There is always a friendly atmosphere and lots of activities available for the residents to take part in (if they are able to or want to). My dad's room is always clean and he is fed well. He is also given the opportunity to go outside if the weather is good which I find really helps my dad as he loves listening to the birds singing.
Thank you so much for your review - we always appreciate feedback as this is valuable for us to continually improve our home, and ensure we are offering the best person centred care. It is a pleasure to have your dad stay with us and for you to entrust us to meet his care needs.
My father is well looked after in this home. Excellent activities meals cleanliness. Good understanding of his complex needs.
Thank you so much for your feedback - This is always appreciated from family who have been with us for a while. It is a pleasure to have your father stay with us.
My dad moved here in Jan 25, the home feels welcoming. Staff are lovely, friendly and caring. My dad has his own routine tailored to him and takes part in a lovely selection of activities. His room is bright with ensuite and is always kept clean. His meals are varied with plenty of options ifhes having a 'not eating day'. I was apprehensive as we had tried 2 other homes but this is the best one I would recommend and wait for a placement for he's happy here.
Thank you so much for your feedback - It is always so nice to hear from loved ones, especially when they are new to Clarence House. The team and i will continue to strive to deliver person centred care. It is a pleasure having your dad stay with us.
Finding the right care home for my mum was a very difficult journey, but this home has been a Godsend for mum. What sets it apart is the genuine 'small family feel' that you don't get in larger facilities. Every single member of the team from the management and the dedicated carers to the cooks, cleaners, laundry and maintenance are exceptionally kind and attentive It is clear they don't just see this as a job, they truly care. Activities also are deeply personal and tailored to the residnt's interests. I cannot recommend this home highly enough.
Thank you so much for taking the time to give us a review - We truly do believe in putting the person in the centre of everything we do and include every member of the team in your loved ones care. It is a pleasure to have your mum stay will us, thank you once again for entrusting us with her care.
My husband has been at Clarenece House for just over 4 years. I feel at ease knowing he is really well looked after, fed well & kept clean. His room is always very clean.
Thank you for your review - We strive to ensure we are delivering person centred care, tailored to suit your loved ones needs. It is a please to have PR with us and again thank you for entrusting us with his care
Very clean. Always feel welcomed when we arrive. Staff are friendly and always seem happy. My husband seems very happy and likes his team. I'm pleased with activities as they get stimulation which helps them.
Thank you for your review - it is always nice to hear feedback from loved ones, especially when they are new to Clarence House. It is a please to have DW with us and thank you again for entrusting us with his care.
Nothing but high praise for all the care and compassion that has been shown to dad. Always made welcome and nothing has too much trouble. Looking forward to Christmas and the celebrations. Nothing but praise.
"Thank you so much for your kind and heartfelt words. I will pass this on to the team. We are truly honored to care for your dad and to have him as part of our community. It means a lot to know that our efforts are appreciated. We are all looking forward to the Christmas celebrations and making it...
I never thought Id have to be in such a situation where I regretted ever letting my mum go into this poorly managed home this home is about money not about the residents care. They are not allowed to freely go in and out of the secure garden there are no ensuite rooms my mum gets taken up the hallway in a lift to a bathroom upstairs which distresses her I witnessed spills in the lounge being left for over an hour whilst staff sat chatting, my mums bed sheets were left for days soaked in infection stains. Dirty clothes left in her wardrobe for weeks her feet were bleeding where they were so dry told she had been showered regularly when she hadn't told she hadn't gained weight when it came out she had, food is full of sugar no fruit ever seen. I raised a safeguarding concern they gave my mum notice then subsequently apologised to me for our experience admitted that the home wasn't managed appropriately then 4 months later retracted notice as we secured a new home for mum we are so upset.
We are sorry to read your comments, though we do not recognise the situation as described. We take all feedback seriously and always encourage families to raise any concerns directly with our management team so that we can address them promptly and appropriately. Our priority remains the wellbeing...
I am writing to thank the manager and their team at Clarence House rest home. From the moment we contacted them, they supplied all of the information we needed and much more for my father's stay. On the day he moved in, the team were relaxed and did everything to help. The bedroom was spacious and well-appointed. Unfortunately, his stay was short but the staff kept us well informed daily and we were allowed to visit at all hours of the day and night. There was always a smile and a cup of tea to keep us going plus many biscuits. The day my dad passed away was a Saturday. Despite not being on duty, a particular member of staff made a special trip to meet us, to make the process smoother, which we appreciated greatly. Clarence House went above and beyond our expectations and we are so glad that we chose this home. On behalf of our family, we thank you for everything.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to review the Home. We greatly appreciate all feedback so that we are able to offer the best service possible. Although your father was with us for only a short time, we were privileged to be able to have the opportunity to care for him before his passing. We are so pleased that you and your family felt supported through this time.
They cared for my mother for 6 years until her death aged 101 in December 2020. The doctor recorded her cause of death as 'frailty of old age'. That we had our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother for so long was due to the support, skill and intervention of the staff of the home. They monitored her wellbeing closely, calling the doctors and my sister and/or I promptly whenever there was any cause for concern, prioritising her needs proactively whenever required.
My sister and I dispute the exact number of homes we viewed - it was between 20 and 30 - before alighting upon Clarence House as our choice. What characterised the home above all others immediately on arrival was the cheerfulness and laughter amongst the staff and their support for the residents. It was a choice easily made. The wisdom of our decision was reinforced as the time went by and as my mother needed additional care and attention.
The staff provide excellent care - they are highly professional and extremely caring. When my mother was ill on several occasions during her years there, and particularly in her final days, I felt very supported and cared for myself. My family and I cannot speak highly enough of the quality of attention and concern they have consistently shown to Mum and I will always be grateful to them. Management, nursing, auxiliary staff - all staff included.
The quality of care, understanding and respect they received were outstanding.
The staff are very efficient, warm, friendly and very caring.
Both mothers had different kinds of care requirements and each had care provided for their specific needs.
We sadly lost both mothers, but they were both so happy to have had Clarence House as their final home.
Clarence House immediately stood out as being the right place.
Nearly 3 years on and we are very happy with the care provided plus the warmth of the staff. The manager and her team are great, the main lounge is excellent with plenty of activities for residents to engage in. The home have worked really hard throughout Covid and put their residents' health first throughout.
Thank you to all the team!
We cannot thank you enough for everything you did for my father. All the team went above and beyond our expectations to ensure he felt happy, cared for and safe during his time with you and that means the absolute world to all of us family members. We couldn’t have asked for any more from any of you. Keep doing what you are doing - you are all amazing!
My mother arrived at Clarence House following a few weeks in hospital after which it became clear she could not return home. She spent just over 4 months at the home and we only moved her out to bring her to a similar home very near us, meaning I could visit regularly and avoid a 70-mile round trip. A few weeks after she joined Clarence House, covid became a real issue and lock-down began. Throughout, I was immensely impressed with how the care home dealt with what was an extremely difficult time for all concerned. I received regular updates and knew my mother was in the best hands. I appreciated that visiting was out of the question. She transferred to the new home towards the end of June with happy memories, especially for the staff who treated her with respect and kindness at all times. Thank you to everyone at Clarence House for your help and assistance.
This is the best care home I have ever been to, or had the privilege of visiting! The staff are just incredible, the garden and placement of the home are lovely, and the manager is the glue that sticks all this together to make one fantastic place to live.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 02 June 2025Good
- CaringGood
- EffectiveGood
- ResponsiveGood
- SafeGood
- Well-ledGood
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
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
News (0) & Events (0)
There are no news items for Clarence House.
There are no upcoming events for Clarence House.
Awards / Recognitions (1)
- 01 Feb 2014Recipient: Clarence House
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Clarence House.
Meet the Team (0)
There are no Team Members posted yet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Clarence House
What types of Care is Clarence House registered for?
Older Person Care, Dementia are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.
How many Rooms does Clarence House have?
There are 26 Single Rooms and 1 Couples/Companion Room.
What are the Facilities & Services at Clarence House?
Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Stairlift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Television point in own room, Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.
How far is Clarence House to the centre of Ferndown?
0.7 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 Clarence House to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Clarence House has an Enhanced Service -more info.