Downhill House has strong links with Durham Aged Mineworkers' Homes Association who, were pioneers in the care for the elderly.  Working in the regions coalfields was a very dangerous occupation, especially in the early days where health and safety generally came out far behind in the priorities of the colliery owners agenda.

County Councillor Richard Stubbs negotiated with the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for the use of property at West Boldon. In 1904 a 99 year lease was granted. Signed as lessees by Joseph Dawes with eight other Boldon miners  Boldon they undertook to convert into accommodation for a number of their retired colleagues. It is understood that lease on  Down Hill House continued until it  was surrendered in 1948.