Our main purpose is to help older adults with complex mental health issues to live well and independently in the community.
In general, the people who use our services are aged 65+, but we look at each person’s case based on need, not age, so we sometimes do take people under 65.
We work with people to understand and manage their mental health condition, as well as to develop and practise the skills which are important to live independently. We focus on ‘recovery’, wellbeing as well as good physical health.
The support we offer
The NHS pays for our services, so we have high levels of experienced mental health nurses on duty 24 hours a day.
This means that we can help people with very complex needs, which are sometimes compounded by other things such as substance misuse, to move from hospital and secure service settings back into their local communities.
We aim to help people to rebuild their social network and friendships, as well as maintain and regain life skills.
Our facilities
Alderwood and Briarwood are both in quiet, residential areas in easy reach of public transport links and amenities.
Our services are well-equipped to meet the physical health care needs of the people we care for. Each has a number of separate lounge and dining areas, fully assisted baths, and wet rooms. We work hard to keep things homely and relaxed.
Families and the people we care for are encouraged to bring in furnishings, pictures, and ornaments for their bedrooms to make it their own.
Our team
Our team of mental health nurses and support workers are specialists in rehabilitation and recovery, and are passionate about what they do.
We specifically select our staff not just for their skills, but for their personal qualities such as warmth, optimism, and a natural desire to help others.
Contact details
Alderwood
Rectory Place
Bensham
Gateshead
NE8 1XD
Telephone: 0191 477 7833
Briarwood
Whitmore Road
Blaydon
NE21 4AN
Telephone: 0191 414 8374