Hawthorn House

Hawthorn House is a spacious single storey modern, purpose built unit, just outside Durham City. Hawthorn House provides short break/respite opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, including those with complex needs, which means that families and carers may also get a much needed break from their caring responsibilities.

Hawthorn House is a registered service with the Care Quality Commission and is rated Outstanding. Visit Care Quality Commission: Hawthorn House for up-to-date rating and registration information.

Providing high quality care and support

Our experienced, well qualified staff offer service users a warm welcome and provide high quality care and support in a safe, positive and stimulating environment.

All staff working with vulnerable adults at Hawthorn House have up to date enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance. Staff are suitably skilled, qualified, experienced and competent to provide care to meet individual needs.

Whilst nursing care is not provided at Hawthorn House; where there is an assessed need, staff are suitably trained to carry out certain procedures including: epilepsy emergency medication, Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS), PEG feeding and stoma care. Other nursing procedures that are required following assessment of need will be delivered by the District Nursing Services.

Activities on offer

We offer service users the choice of a wide range of activities that suit their interests to make their stay more enjoyable and entertaining. We also have a wheelchair accessible mini bus to take service users out and about on day trips, weather and staffing levels permitting. Service users will need to bring money to cover expenses and outings.

Friends and relatives are welcome to visit service users staying at Hawthorn House but please pre-arrange visits via Hawthorn House.

The cost of a short break cost

The cost of the short break will be confirmed following a financial assessment of the service user and a bill will be sent following the stay, with payment options.

How to book

Bookings should be done through your Care Coordinator or Social Worker. If you are new to the service, you will need to Contact Social Care Direct as you will need an assessment first.