Eastcliffe is one of our popular 10-bedroom residential homes. We deliver bespoke individualised packages of care to people diagnosed with various complexities, autism, learning difficulties and epilepsy. We offer high quality training in autism awareness, epilepsy, medication and person centred training for those who require it, this includes bespoke communication training such as Makaton.
Sidecliffe Road, Roker,
Sunderland,
Tyne and Wear
SR6 9PX
Autism
Complex needs
Learning disabilities
Hello, my name is Darlington, and I’m proud to be working alongside two fantastic teams at Eastcliffe and Park Lodge as a Registered Manager.
With over 16 years of experience in health and social care across the Northeast, I’ve grown from a Support Worker into various managerial roles that have shaped my journey. My background includes managing services for young people, substance misuse, supported living, day centres, short breaks, and residential care. I’ve also gained valuable frontline experience working in hospitals and secure units.
Academically, I hold a Degree in Estate Management and a Master’s in Environmental Management, complemented by optional courses in Health and Safety. I’m currently completing my Level 5 Diploma in Care Leadership and Management and hold a Level 3 Assessor’s Certificate in Health and Social Care (CAVA Level 3).
These qualifications, combined with my diverse experience, guide me in supporting my teams, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the people we support, and delivering high-quality care every day.
Since joining Swanton Care, I’ve been especially inspired by the emphasis on co-production and meaningful engagement. I believe every moment matters — and every decision we make should help build skills, confidence, and a better quality of life for those we support.

I bring over 15 years of experience in the social care sector, having started my career as a support worker in 2009. Over the years, I have held various leadership roles, which have given me a deep understanding of both the challenges and rewards of delivering high-quality care.
I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with technology companies to develop assistive technologies, and most recently, I served as a Strategic Leader overseeing 130 services across residential, respite, domiciliary, and ISL provisions. My dedication to ensuring that care is personalised and tailored to each individual’s unique needs is central to my work, and I firmly believe that every voice matters and deserves to be heard.

Chief Executive Officer Gary Thompson is the Responsible Individual for Eastcliffe. To find out more, visit our Meet The Team page.

Eastcliffe is situated close to the beautiful seafront in Roker Sunderland. There are various close by amenities such as, a local shopping centre, restaurants, gym, The Glass Centre and the famous Stadium of Light (Sunderland football club).
The people we support are engaged in active support. We help them live a fulfilled life, where they can achieve their dreams, goals and aspirations, building on everyday independent skills.
In our most recent CQC report we received some incredibly positive feedback from family members.
Relatives told us they felt their family members were safe living at Eastcliffe. One family member stated, their family member recognises Eastcliffe - Swanton Care as their home and feels safe living there. Another relative stated, “I feel comfortable knowing my son is happy, well cared for and safe.”


