In 2026, we welcomed Deaconstar to the Swanton Group.
Deaconstar provides person‑centred supported living services in County Durham, supporting adults with learning disabilities to live independently in their own homes and within their communities.
Support is tailored around each individual’s routines, preferences and personal goals, ensuring it fits their lifestyle and promotes independence.
Alongside supported living, Deaconstar’s newly refurbished Day Centre offers a welcoming environment where individuals can take part in activities, develop new skills and connect with others in a supportive and engaging setting.
Suite 1, The Old Court House,
Woodhouse Lane
Bishop Auckland
DL14 6FQ
Mental health
Complex needs
Physical disabilities
I began my career in adult social care in 2007 as a Support Worker and have since progressed through a range of roles, including Senior Support Worker, Team Leader, and Service Leader, before becoming a Registered Manager in 2022.
I have extensive experience working across supported living services and extra care, supporting adults with a wide range of complex needs, including learning disabilities, mental health conditions, autism, self-harm, and behaviours that may challenge. This experience has given me a strong understanding of delivering high-quality, person-centred care tailored to each individual.
As a Registered Manager, I oversee the day-to-day running of services, ensuring they are safe, compliant, and consistently delivering excellent outcomes. I am responsible for leading and developing staff teams, safeguarding the individuals we support, and working collaboratively with families and professionals.
With over 25 years of experience in adult social care, I’ve had the privilege of working across a wide range of services, including mental health, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, elderly residential care and, most recently, complex care. I’m passionate about supporting staff teams to enhance the lives of the people we support, making sure every moment truly matters.
I have a strong background in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and am continuing to build on this by completing a Leadership in PBS qualification at Northumbria University, due to be completed in December 2026. I also hold a Level 5 Leadership and Management Diploma in Adult Social Care, and was proud to be the first person in England and Wales to achieve a distinction in this qualification — demonstrating my commitment to applying learning directly to practice. In addition, I hold an adult teaching certificate and greatly enjoy delivering training and sharing knowledge with others.
Alongside my professional experience, I have spent 18 years as a voluntary youth leader and family worker, as well as managing a community centre on a voluntary basis. This has given me extensive experience working with children, young people, families and volunteers, shaping my collaborative, people focused approach.
I am committed to high quality care and support, and I’m passionate about working in partnership with the people we support, their families, staff teams and professionals. I believe in unlocking potential and supporting people to live their best life, every day.
Chief Executive Officer Gary Thompson is the Responsible Individual for Deaconstar. To find out more, visit our Meet The Team page.
At Deaconstar, support is shaped around each of the people we support, building a clear understanding of their individual needs, preferences, and goals.
Alongside delivering tailored care to adults with learning disabilities, the service specialises in providing high-quality supported living options. This includes working in partnership with experienced developers and trusted social housing providers to ensure the people we support have access to homes that meet their needs.
This joined-up approach brings support and accommodation together, enabling the people we support to live as independently as possible while also meeting the expectations of commissioners and partners.
The day centre offers over 1,800sqm of space, with a range of areas set up to support different interests and activities. This includes spaces for dance and movement, IT and gaming, arts and crafts, sensory activities, and larger rooms for group sessions and events.
A wide range of activities and support is available, all shaped around the people we support. The focus is on creating opportunities for people to develop skills, try new things, and take part in activities they enjoy as part of their everyday routine.
Looking ahead, the service is continuing to develop its offer. Plans include an independent living suite, designed to reflect everyday home environments and help people we support build confidence in managing daily tasks and situations.
