Thortindale

Thortindale Cottage is a warm and nurturing children’s home located in the peaceful village of Hest Bank, near Morecambe.

The home provides care for up to four young people aged 8–18, offering a calm and supportive environment for those experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties. Set away from the pressures of busy urban life, Thortindale gives young people the time and space they need to feel safe, settle and grow.

At the heart of Thortindale is a relationship-led approach, where young people are supported by a dedicated and experienced team. We focus on building trust, stability and positive routines, helping each individual to develop confidence, resilience and a strong sense of identity. Using a solution-focused model, we encourage young people to look forward, set goals and achieve positive outcomes in all areas of their lives.

The home itself is a spacious, detached property with comfortable communal areas, ensuite bedrooms and a large garden that sits alongside a canal. Young people benefit from a family-style environment as well as access to therapeutic support, including counselling and clinical psychology, ensuring their emotional wellbeing is carefully supported.

Thortindale is ideally located in a semi-rural setting, close to the coastal town of Morecambe and the historic city of Lancaster. The surrounding area offers a range of opportunities for education, leisure and outdoor activities, from scenic coastal walks and canal paths to local sports, shops and community facilities. This balance of tranquillity and accessibility helps young people build independence while staying connected to local opportunities.

Staff respond sensitively to children’s individual needs, creating a supportive environment where children feel secure, valued and able to thrive.

Ofsted, March 2026

Children engage positively with staff and feel safe within the home. They are confident in approaching staff for advice, comfort and support, reflecting the strong and trusting relationships that have been built.

Ofsted, March 2026

Children say they feel safe and can go to staff for advice and support.

Ofsted, March 2026

Our Homes

Bay View Childcare currently has five homes located across Lancashire, and are ideally located in rural areas which are close to large towns in order to provide both the seclusion and safety of a countryside location and the amenities of larger towns.

About Us

At Bay View Childcare, we provide specialist residential care for young people aged 6–18 who are experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties. Our focus is to create a safe, nurturing and supportive environment where young people feel valued, understood and able to move forward with confidence.

Careers

Working at Bay View is more than just a job – it’s about achieving extraordinary things every day. As part of the Polaris Community, we are dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of the young people we care for.