£2.3m extension to create new dementia-specialist wing at Fornham House

Fornham House care residence in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, is nearing completion of a significant extension programme that will see the creation of a brand new self-contained, dementia-specialist wing for up to 17 people living with the condition.

Healthcare Homes Group, which owns Fornham House, has confirmed that £2.3 million is being invested in the project, which will see the creation of additional new facilities for adults living with dementia who require specialist care. This will create a further 10-15 new job roles at the home, which already employs 70 people from the local area.

In addition to 17 new ensuite bedrooms, a new lounge area and new dining room are being created together with an extensive decked area and internal courtyard. 

The secure wing will be furnished with comfortable, modern fittings yet will be in keeping with the traditional setting of Fornham House, which sits centrally within its landscaped, walled gardens.  The visitor parking is also being extended.

The project is being undertaken by Horizon Construction, which anticipates the programme of works concluding in late October.

David Smith, Director of Estates & Property Services of Healthcare Homes Group and project manager for the Fornham House project said: “The Group is investing in extending Fornham House to create a brand-new dementia-focused wing that will offer much-needed additional care services for those living with the condition.

“We have been working with our construction partner, Horizon Construction, who take great care in delivering on time and are respectful in the way they work; particularly ensuring minimal disruption to existing residents.”

Fornham House’s Home Manager, Desiree Jooste said; “This is a very exciting development for our home and will offer a dementia-specialist service to anyone who may be looking for support for a loved-one.

“In total, we will be able to accommodate up to 88 residents for both residential and dementia-focused care, and will be increasing staff numbers by around 20%, which is all very positive.” 

“I would like to thank my deputy Clare Pethick who has supported the project management with the wider team, and also to our residents who have been watching the new development with patience and interest over recent months.”

This news follows the recent addition of a temporary garden visiting ‘pod’, which enables residents to meet family members in a Covid-safe environment. The wooden cabin – named the ‘Rainbow Room’ by residents – has a Perspex screen to separate visitors from residents and an intercom to make communicating easy. The room is also equipped with heating when required, insulation and nurse call buttons.

Fornham House care residence is part of the Healthcare Homes Group and is based on Fornham St Martin near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

For more information on the range of services provided or to arrange a virtual tour, call 01284 768327.

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