Positive Care and Support delivers personalised, person-centred support across County Durham, enabling people to live independently at home and remain connected to their communities.
Now part of the Swanton Group, the service continues to build on its commitment to quality, choice, and individuality—supporting people with everyday life, promoting independence, and helping each person achieve what matters most to them.
Suite 1, The Old Court House,
Woodhouse Lane
Bishop Auckland
DL14 6FQ
Mental health
Complex needs
Physical disabilities
With over 18 years of experience in the care sector, I have worked across a wide range of settings, including domiciliary care, residential services, learning disabilities, and complex mental health. I began my career as a home care worker and have progressed through roles including Support Worker, Team Leader, and Service Manager, to my current position as Registered Manager. Each step has shaped my understanding of what good care looks like and the standards people deserve.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to support others. I believe meaningful care begins with seeing the person first, and I take a human‑centred approach in everything I do—leading with patience, respect, and integrity. Safeguarding is central to my role, and I remain committed to ensuring the people we support are safe, valued, and heard.
I hold a Foundation Degree in Public Service, alongside NVQ Levels 2, 3, and 5 in Health and Social Care, and team leading qualifications. I also previously worked as a CPI/MAPA instructor, supporting teams to respond confidently and compassionately in challenging situations, while maintaining a person‑centred approach.
I am proud to be part of Swanton, where the values closely align with my own. I am committed to creating positive, supportive environments where people can thrive, staff feel empowered, and individuals receive the highest standard of care.
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 Positive Care and Support . To find out more, visit our Meet The Team page.
Positive Care and Support works with people to provide person‑centred, tailored support that fits around their day‑to‑day lives. The focus is on understanding each person’s routines, preferences, and goals, and making sure support feels right for them.
Support is built around promoting independence while offering the right level of help and guidance where needed. This can include support with daily routines, getting out into the community, and building confidence over time.
The team takes a consistent, flexible approach, working alongside people to support choice, independence, and everyday living. Support can change as needs change, ensuring it continues to work for each individual.
As part of the Swanton Group, Positive Care and Support is connected to a wider network, while continuing to deliver a local service shaped around the people it supports.
