
Mayor of Ipswich, with Home Manager Agnieszka McDonald (centre), and members of the team at Handford House during Care Home Open Week.
Handford House in Ipswich welcomed residents, families, staff and members of the local community for a football-themed garden party as part of Care Home Open Week.
The event, held under the national “Care Is Coming Home” campaign, used a football World Cup theme to celebrate the vital role care homes play in their communities.
The afternoon included entertainment, activities and refreshments, creating an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together in a relaxed setting.
A special highlight of the day was a visit from the Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Pat Bruce-Browne, who officially opened the event.
The Mayor spent time speaking with residents, families and staff, joining in the celebrations and showing support for the home’s community-focused approach.

Councillor Pat Bruce-Browne, Mayor of Ipswich, speaking with a resident and their relative during Care Home Open Week at Handford House.
Nicholas Pearkes, Activities Coordinator at Handford House, said: “The event was a huge success and was enjoyed by everyone who attended.
Residents and staff were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Ipswich, who officially opened the fete and took the time to meet residents, families and members of the local community.
“Care Home Open Week is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, and it was wonderful to see residents, relatives, staff and visitors enjoying the day side by side. Events like this help strengthen the connections within our home and remind us of the importance of being part of the wider community.
“I would also like to thank the team and Home Manager, Agnieszka McDonald, for their support and encouragement in helping make the day such a success.”
Handford House is part of the Healthcare Homes Group, which operates care homes, homecare branches, live-in care services and specialist care services across the South and East of England.
With a team of approaching 4,000 dedicated colleagues, the organisation is committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care that supports individuals to live fulfilling lives.

Mayor of Ipswich, with Activities Coordinator- Nicholas Pearkes and a resident at Handford House during a Care Home Open Week celebration.
Handford House offers residential, nursing, dementia, respite and palliative care in a warm, friendly and supportive environment. The home features comfortable lounges, a large activities room, landscaped gardens and patio areas, helping residents to stay active, engaged and connected.
Care Home Open Week is a national initiative designed to open care homes to the public, showcase the range of care and activities available, and strengthen links between care homes and their local communities.

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