Somerforde was born out of a very simple question: “Would we be happy for our own parents to live here?”
Coming from completely different industries one of us with a background in software, the other in design we hadn’t planned to go into care. But after visiting a number of care homes, we felt we could create something better.
So we set out to create a home that was warm, welcoming, and beautifully designed a place that not only met every need but also lifted spirits. A home where care is not clinical, but personal.
A Different Beginning
Our Philosophy
We believe in three things above all else:
Care should feel like home. Residents aren’t moving into an institution, they’re joining a family. Every detail from the design of our spaces to the way meals are served is about comfort, dignity, and joy.
Staff are the heart of everything. If we look after our team, they look after our residents. Many of our carers join us unqualified and grow into leaders, completing NVQs, and even MBAs, supported and celebrated along the way. This consistency means familiar faces, genuine bonds, and peace of mind for families.
We never stop improving. Each year we invest in new projects, from refurbishments and garden redesigns to new technology that makes care safer and smarter.
A Family
We live and breathe this home, alongside our staff, our residents, and their families. That’s why the feedback we treasure most comes from the cards, letters, and heartfelt thanks we receive from families. They tell us their loved ones feel cared for, loved, and treasured and that tells us we’re on the right track.
At Somerforde, you’re not leaving a family behind. You’re joining a bigger one.
What People Are Saying
My mum receives excellent care at Somerforde from all the staff. Nothing is too much trouble, which has helped Mum settle in well. It's an anxious time when a loved one goes into care, but I've been brilliantly supported through the whole process. I would highly recommend Somerforde if you are looking for a care home that is gorgeous, friendly and with a family feel.
— Jane Lily C (Daughter of Resident)
In every way, Somerforde excels and I can't say enough to thank each member of staff in the Somerforde team for all their extraordinary levels of care for my Father.
— R D (Son of Resident)
All staff are so caring making the home feel like a welcoming place to be.
My mum is getting to the stage in her life that she can hardly do anything for herself, but nothing seems to much bother for the lovely young people that look after her.
— W G (Daughter of Resident)
Thoughts from a family
My Dad has been a resident at Somerforde for almost a year following a sudden decline in his Parkinson’s. This was, without doubt, an incredibly upsetting and difficult transition for him and for us as a family.
From day one, the support from the staff team has been immeasurable. They have been true advocates for Dad and have fought for his needs. It’s incredibly comforting to know he is safe, cared for, respected, and well looked after. I can tell by the look on my Dad’s face that he is happy, relaxed, comfortable, and content. He has built such lovely relationships with the staff, who put so much time and effort into getting to know him on a personal level.
As a family, we have complete trust in the team at Somerforde. They are always approachable, kind, and supportive to both Dad and us. The staff take time to listen, communicate openly, and keep us involved in every aspect of his care. Their warmth, dedication, and genuine compassion mean the world to us.
Dad really enjoys the variety of food, which is always tailored to his needs, and he takes part in the fun, creative, and inclusive activities that the staff encourage all residents to join and enjoy.
We genuinely feel like part of the Somerforde family. There’s such a warm, uplifting, and personal atmosphere that makes it feel like home.
I cannot thank you enough, Somerforde, and I would not hesitate to recommend you.
Rachel, Daughter of a resident
FAQs
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While our story focuses on the heart and philosophy behind Somerforde, many families ask what kind of care we actually offer day to day. We provide high-quality residential and respite care, with staff trained to support a wide range of needs from help with daily living to more complex personal care and medication management. Our consistent, highly qualified team means residents receive attentive, personalised support, always delivered with warmth and dignity.
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We take great pride in continually evolving Somerforde, but our investment choices aren’t made in isolation. We listen to residents, families, and staff to understand what would make the biggest difference to daily life. Whether it’s refurbishing bedrooms, redesigning the gardens, or introducing new wellbeing initiatives, each project begins with the same question: “Will this make Somerforde feel even more like home?”
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Community is what makes Somerforde truly special. We nurture it through open communication, shared celebrations, and everyday acts of kindness. Families are always welcome to join meals, take part in activities, or simply drop by for tea. Our long-serving team members know each resident deeply, and that familiarity builds trust and belonging. It’s this togetherness that makes Somerforde feel less like a workplace or a care home, and more like a family.
Arrange a viewing
We’d love to show you around. Arrange a visit and see first-hand how our caring team and welcoming atmosphere make Somerforde such a special place to call home.