Erith House, Torquay

To all the Staff & Residents of Erith House,

I write to express my sincere gratitude for the kindness and friendship you have shown myself and Dad during the past few years.

We truly felt your consistent support during each new challenge and it was very much appreciated …

The confidence I felt when I dropped Dad off after a day out was vital for my peace of mind. Knowing he belonged to such a special family setting allowed me to attend to my own life. I cannot put a price on the relief his safety brought to me …

I honestly was so touched by your care. I cannot thank you all enough for all your selfless hard work, effort and love.

Erith House provides 20 en-suite rooms in Keychange’s only purpose-built care home.

Erith House has an interesting history: in 1854 a Trust was established in Torquay as there was a need for a superior home where board and care could be provided during the winter months. The imposing Victorian building that was erected in 1860 specifically for this purpose was named Erith House, and a blue wall plaque by Torbay Civic Society gives more details. Erith House was set up by the same committee of the nursing home where Miss Florence Nightingale, the founder of Nursing, had her first job. Among the first residents were 2 patients sent by Miss Nightingale from London to “benefit from the mild climate of Torquay”.

Erith House is a Grade II Listed building and there are many interesting architectural features. It boasts the widest front door in Keychange, with a huge key reminiscent of fairy tales of long ago! The fabric of the property is maintained to the high standards required of Grade II Listed buildings.

The fully-accessible garden is an outstanding feature of the ambience of the home. The well-appointed flower beds and lawn areas, together with 2 summer houses make it a very popular place with residents.

Torquay is built on 7 hills, and Erith House is in the charming residential area of Wellswood.