How to Choose the Right Care Home in County Durham

Finding the right Care Home in County Durham for a loved one is one of the most important — and emotional — decisions a family can make. Whether you’re looking for nursing care, residential support, or specialist dementia services, the right environment makes all the difference to comfort, safety, and peace of mind.

If you’re searching for a care home in County Durham, here’s what to consider and how Seaham Care Homes can help.

1. Understand the Level of Care Needed

Start by identifying what kind of care your loved one requires. Some people need light support with daily tasks, while others require 24-hour nursing or dementia care. The main types of care include:

Residential Care – for those who can no longer live alone safely
Nursing Care – for residents with medical needs requiring qualified nurses
Dementia or EMI Care – specialist care for those living with memory loss or behavioural changes
Respite Care – short-term stays to support recovery or give carers a break

Seaham Care Homes offers all of the above across two facilities: Denehurst Nursing Home and Stockton Lodge Care Home, both located in County Durham.

2. Visit the Care Homes in Person

A brochure or website is helpful, but nothing beats an in-person visit. During your visit:

Observe how staff interact with residents
Ask about personalised care plans
Look at cleanliness and safety features
Try a meal, if possible
View bedrooms and communal spaces
Ask about activities and social opportunities

At Seaham Care Homes, we welcome visits at both of our homes and encourage families to ask questions and meet our team.

3. Review Staff Qualifications and RatiosThe best care homes have qualified, compassionate staff who understand the needs of older adults. Ask about:

Staff-to-resident ratios
Training and experience
Night-time support
On-site nurses and managers

At Seaham Care Homes, our staff undergo continuous training in safeguarding, dementia support, medical care, and communication. We prioritise warmth, respect, and consistency.

4. Check for Person-Centred Care

No two residents are the same — so their care shouldn’t be either. Look for homes that:

Offer individual care plans
Respect religious or cultural preferences
Allow room personalisation
Provide choice in meals and daily routines
Include families in decision-making

Both Denehurst and Stockton Lodge offer person-centred support that adapts to each resident’s needs, history, and personality.

5. Consider Location and Community Links

Is the care home easily accessible for family visits? Are there links to the local community or regular outings and activities?

Both of our homes in Seaham are within reach of Ferryhill, Durham City, and wider County Durham. We welcome local visitors and offer regular activities, visiting clergy, community events, and even therapy pets to help residents stay engaged and uplifted.

6. Review Feedback and CQC Ratings

Check Care Quality Commission (CQC) reports and read online reviews. Personal testimonials from other families can be incredibly reassuring.

Seaham Care Homes are proud of our longstanding reputation for quality and compassion. Families regularly tell us how safe and supported their loved ones feel in our care.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a care home in County Durham takes time and research — but the peace of mind that comes from the right decision is priceless. At Seaham Care Homes, we’re here to make that process easier by providing clear information, open communication, and genuine support every step of the way.