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Handford House

27a Cumberland Street, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 3PA
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She is very happy here, the staff go above and beyond to meet her needs.June C(Daughter of Resident/Service User)
Handford House, Ipswich
The staff are very friendly and helpful and chatty with my husband.Rosemary H(Wife of Resident/Service User)
Handford House, Ipswich
Handford House, Ipswich

Located in the oldest Anglo-Saxon town in England, Ipswich in Suffolk, Handford House takes a holistic approach to providing outstanding care to residents with nursing, respite, dementia, or palliative care needs.

The passionate team take pride in providing warm, welcoming and friendly care, embodying the ethos of dignity and respect for residents at all times.

The home is specifically designed to provide a comfortable, accessible and safe respite for residents....  

Care Provided by Handford House

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Physical Disability
  • Younger Adults

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
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • Day Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential CareFrom £1,500From £1,550
Residential Dementia CareFrom £1,500From £1,550
Nursing CareFrom £1,500From £1,550
Nursing Dementia CareFrom £1,500From £1,550

Contact Handford 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)

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 £267.68 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.

Good to Know

Group / Owner

Person in charge

  • Agnieszka McDonald(Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 50+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (52)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (32)

Handford House Reviews (84)

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8.7

Handford House has a Review Score of 8.7 (8.665) out of 10, based on 20 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Handford House has 84 reviews.

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Showing 84 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from J L (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 February 2023 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My mother has been a challenging resident and the staff have handled her with care and respect, this also applies to family that visit. They ensure that her needs are met with good communication with the family.

Reply from Fisayo Akadri, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for taking the time to write this kind review. I'm sure the team will also appreciate it when I share this review with them.

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Review from P W (Daughter of Resident) published on 18 January 2023 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I would not let my worst enemy stay here. Not only was my father's room dirty, I could never find a member of staff and when I did they did not seem to care. My father ended up in hospital with a serious injury in which he told me how he did it but a carer tried to say he rolled out of bed. I am so glad he is now in a lovely home that cares and gives their all.

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Review from L C (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 4 January 2023 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I wouldn't let my dog stay here! So glad my Nan has left this awful place. The rooms were so dirty, tenants walking around half dressed with no shoes on. Tenants left without food and drinks. Dining area was disgustingly dirty with food left on the floor. My Nan was given a dirty plastic mattress with no blanket during one of our coldest winters and she was regularly found like this. If you love your relative do not send them here. And if you have loved ones here get them out. Handford House these people deserve better, sort it out. Minus 10 for all aspects!

Reply from Fisayo Akadri, Home Manager at Handford House
Thank you for taking the time to share a review. Had I or any of my staff been made aware of your concerns we would have contacted you immediately to discuss and investigate. We take all feedback and concerns seriously in the home.

I have looked into your concerns and shared them with the team. We...  

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Review from Claire B (Wife of Resident) published on 3 October 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My husband has been at Handford House for well over a year. He arrived from a mental health unit after being sectioned by another home and then being discharged. Handford House welcomed him, assessed his needs and made sure that he had the help that he needed. The staff are helpful, cheerful and caring. Thewy are patient and personal with him. He is now relaxed and settled. As a family, we are tremendously grateful.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you so much for your kind words, I shall pass this on to the team.

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Review from Sarah C (Sister of Resident) published on 20 September 2022 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Since my step sister has lived at Handford House sadly her condition has deteriorated. This has come as no surprise to me as her condition is progressive. However, the staff have looked after her with such care and attention, recognising her specific individual needs, that this experience has been made so much easier not just for me but especially for her. Communication with me has always been good and she has been cared for with the dignity and respect she deserves. As she approaches the end of her life it is so reassuring to know they make every effort in her best interests to make her comfortable. Although she has never been able to voice her thanks I can thank you all for your kindness and understanding towards my lovely sister, and if she could voice it I know she would share my gratitude.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your review, I will pass your kind words through to my colleagues.

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Review from S C (Son of Resident) published on 28 July 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Dad suffers from dementia and was transferred to Handford House from hospital. The home was a complete unknown to the family but it was quickly apparent that the staff provided excellent care and nursing with compassion and understanding. Dad's health improved and after 9 months he is settled and happy. Communications with the family are very good, we are promptly informed of any health issues, if required the nursing staff call in the local GP and carers accompany Dad to hospital for outpatient appointments as I live in the North of England. He is assisted to participate in activities and trips that he greatly enjoys. Whenever I talk to Dad, I always ask him two questions; is he happy and is everyone kind to him? The answers are always yes!

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your lovely words, I will pass these on to our teams.

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Review from Ian G (Son of Resident) published on 26 July 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

A very good establishment throughout and supportive staff I have seen to my knowledge.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your kind review, I will pass this on to my team.

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Review from Brian R (Friend of Resident) published on 20 July 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

A happy and friendly home, nothing is too much trouble. Also spotlessly clean.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your feedback, I will pass this on to my team.

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Review from F A (Resident / Service User) published on 20 July 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I am happy and content here, nice rooms, clean and light friendly staff and residents. Would be nice to have some activities.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

I am so pleased to hear that you are happy here, I will pass your feedback onto the teams.

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Review from A A (Resident / Service User) published on 30 June 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Having been here for six weeks, I am settled and happy with good treatment and support from friendly staff.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for you feedback, We're really pleased that you're happy and settled here.

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Review from Debbie P (Daughter of Resident) published on 8 June 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
Handford House overall is a well-run home. The reception staff are very helpful. They go above and beyond.

Mum seems to have settled well, always clean and book filled in daily. The staff are friendly and willing. Thanks for doing a great job.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your feedback, I will pass this on to the teams.

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Review from David B (Brother of Resident) published on 7 June 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

End of life care very good from carers and nursing staff. Made to feel very welcome by all.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

It was an honour looking after your Brother, Thank you for your feedback.

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Review from Wendy B (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 June 2022 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mum has been in Handford for almost two years and moved in the pandemic. Although we had no choice in where to place Mum, we couldn't have chosen a better home. The staff are personable, polite and respectful, going out of their way to learn about her, our family and Mum's likes and interests. They are happy to put up things on her wall to personalise Mum's room, activities are organised, the place is clean, and the food is excellent. Well done, Handford House.

Reply from Naomi Bender, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your lovely words; I will pass this on to my team.

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Review from June C (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 August 2021 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Mum has been with Handford House since 2010. We, as a family, cannot fault the care she receives. She is very happy here, the staff go above and beyond to meet her needs. I would definitely recommend Handford House. Even during the current pandemic with restrictions in place, they have made sure Mum is happy.

Reply from Magda Kurdziel, Home Manager at Handford House
Dear June,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write us such a kind review.

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Review from O S (Son of Resident) published on 29 June 2021 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The home has shown organisation and compassion in these unique times ensuring the safety and best interests of Mum. The new visiting procedure has been challenging but best efforts have been made in ensuring contact for Mum - especially window visits with notice.

Reply from Martha Piper, Digital Marketing Lead at Handford House

Thank you so much for taking the time to write us such a kind review! We always want to make sure you are all able to see your loved ones and keep up to date with what they are doing.

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Review from Janet K (Wife of Resident) published on 25 June 2021 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I have always found the staff very helpful and obliging. Although my husband has not been well enough to participate in the activities, having seen the programmes I am sure they are very good.

Reply from Magda Kurdziel, Home Manager at Handford House
Thank you for your review, we appreciate your feedback and we will pass it to our team.

Magda

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Review from Alexander B (Son of Resident) published on 25 June 2021 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

We are very pleased with the care my father is getting. The staff have been so helpful in this very difficult time for our family. My father seems so happy with everything, the facility is very clean and tidy and we always get a warm welcome when we visit. Could not ask for anything more from Handford House. 10 out of 10. Fantastic.

Reply from Magda Kurdziel, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for your review. We appreciate your feedback and we will share it with our team at Handford House.

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Review from Angela (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 December 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our family would like to pass on our thanks to everyone at Handford House for their dedicated care for our Mum. Whilst she was only with you for a short while, our overall experience was extremely positive. All the staff are so kind and caring and cannot do enough to help, despite working during these challenging times. Special thanks go to all of the staff who cared for her. We will be forever grateful that our Mum was able to spend her last few days in the care of Handford House. We would not hesitate to recommend others to consider Handford House for their relatives too. Congratulations to the management and the wonderful team of workers you have. Please pass on our thanks to everyone.

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Review from Janet B (Niece of Resident) published on 19 February 2020 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

A very caring environment with lovely professional staff. They helped my uncle settle in by taking him on a trip to the seaside, which reminded him of many happy childhood memories. Both his sister and brother have also been well cared for at Handford House care home.

Reply from Mike Parris, Home Manager at Handford House

Thank you for taking the time to leave us this lovely review which I will share with the team here at Handford House.

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Review from Graham P (Nephew of Resident) published on 18 February 2020 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

We had no previous experience of related matters, but were given 100% support and clear, concise guidance from the initial enquiry to pre-arrival meeting and most importantly, settling my uncle in. Everything was professional but friendly. Making the decision that my uncle needed 'care' was the hardest, finding and visiting Handford House was the easy part.

Reply from Mike Parris, Home Manager at Handford House

Thanks very much for taking the time to leave us a review. I will share your kind feedback with my team.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 19 March 2025
Overall
Good
  • CaringGood
  • EffectiveGood
  • ResponsiveGood
  • SafeGood
  • Well-ledRequires improvement
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.

News (8) & Events (0)

News
  • 04 Dec 2025

    Residents at Handford House, a care home in Ipswich, received a handwritten letter from Sir David Attenborough. The 99-year-old broadcaster replied after residents wrote to him, sharing how much they...

  • 04 Dec 2025

    Residents at Handford House, a care home in Ipswich, received a handwritten letter from Sir David Attenborough. The 99-year-old broadcaster replied after residents wrote to him, sharing how much they...

  • 13 Nov 2024

    Handford House is thrilled to announce the appointment of Renata Sulugiuc as the new Home Manager. With over 14 years of experience as a registered nurse and a strong background...

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for Handford House.

Awards / Recognitions (11)

Accreditations

There are no accreditations posted yet for Handford House.

Meet the Team (4)

Agnieszka McDonald
Agnieszka McDonaldJob Title:Home Manager

I’m passionate about building meaningful relationships with residents and their families, and creating a warm, safe, and supportive environment where everyone feels valued. I take pride in making a positive difference each day by bringing comfort, dignity, and moments of joy to residents’ lives, while supporting their overall well-being. I hold an NVQ Level 3 qualification and am committed to delivering high-quality care at Handford House.

Nicholas Pearkes
Nicholas PearkesJob Title:Activities CoordinatorJoined: 2025

I enjoy the sense of achievement that comes from interacting with residents and getting to know each of them personally. I like to involve residents in decision-making and conversations, and I’ve already introduced activities such as hand and nail care, quizzes, and games of dominoes. I also take time to speak with families to better understand each resident’s needs and interests. I hold a Diploma in Dementia Awareness and a GNVQ Level 2 in Customer Service, which supports me in providing thoughtful and engaging care.

Jennifer Adams
Jennifer AdamsJob Title:AdministratorJoined: 2025

I enjoy the daily interaction with staff, residents, and their families in such a warm and inviting atmosphere. I always greet everyone with a friendly smile, helping to create a welcoming environment where residents and visitors feel at ease.

Catherine
Catherine Job Title:Clinical Deputy ManagerJoined: 2026

Creating a warm and welcoming environment is what I love most about Handford House. I enjoy building strong relationships with residents and their families, helping to ensure everyone feels valued, supported, and cared for.

As a Registered Nurse with 11 years of experience, I am passionate about delivering high-quality, person-centred care. I have a particular interest in supporting people living with dementia and helping to enhance residents' wellbeing, dignity, and quality of life.

My background includes roles within the NHS and as a Clinical Lead in Neurological Rehabilitation and Complex Care Management, providing me with extensive experience in supporting people with a wide range of care needs.

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