Care homes and supported accommodation for veterans in Scotland: finding the right fit for you
If you’re a veteran living in Scotland and finding it harder to manage at home, there are supportive, welcoming environments designed with you in mind. Care homes and supported accommodation can offer stability, companionship and access to professionals who understand the armed forces community.
Here’s a clear guide to the help available and the organisations that can support you in finding the right place to live.
Time to read:
This guidance is for Scotland. There are separate guides for England and Wales and Northern Ireland.
Thinking about a care home?
A care home can provide reassurance and a renewed sense of routine when independent living becomes difficult. As a resident, you may benefit from:
- support with daily tasks such as washing, dressing and meals
- access to nursing or specialist care if needed
- opportunities to meet other veterans and form friendships
- organised activities and structured routines
- a safe and comfortable environment with trained staff
For many veterans, moving into a care home can improve both wellbeing and quality of life.
Will your local council help pay for care?
In Scotland, care support is arranged through your local council.
You can request a community care assessment from your council’s social work team, which is free and helps determine:
- what level of care you need
- whether you’re eligible for funding support
- which care options may suit you best
This assessment is often the first step toward accessing the right care home or support services.
Organisations that can help you find a care home
Scotland has several well-established organisations that provide dedicated care and accommodation for veterans.
Age Scotland
Age Scotland have specialist local advisers across the UK who can provide advice and support if you’re considering moving into a care home.
They offer specific schemes and advice for older ex-armed forces personnel.
SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity
SSAFA supports veterans across Scotland by:
- offering practical, emotional and financial assistance
- helping you navigate housing and care options
- connecting you with local services and support networks
They have a strong local presence and a long history of supporting the armed forces community.
Royal British Legion
While most of their own care homes are based in England, the Royal British Legion can still support veterans in Scotland through:
- advice on care and housing
- financial assistance in some cases
- guidance on accessing appropriate services
Their care homes are designed to provide a ‘home from home’ with strong community connections among residents.
Prefer supported accommodation over a care home?
If you’d like to remain independent but still feel part of a supportive community, supported accommodation may be the perfect fit.
Supported accommodation offers:
- more independence
- a community of like‑minded veterans (if you’d prefer veterans-specific accommodation)
- social spaces
- support services when you need them
- options for spouses in some areas
These properties are typically available to rent and can offer the right balance of independence and support.
Organisations that provide veteran-specific supported accommodation
Several veteran‑focused organisations offer supported accommodation in Scotland.
Erskine Veterans Charity
Erskine is one of Scotland’s leading providers of veterans care. It offers:
- residential and nursing care, including dementia and end-of-life support
- purpose-built care homes in areas such as Glasgow and Edinburgh
- a wider ‘Veterans Village’ with cottages and assisted living options
The charity has been supporting veterans for over a century and remains a cornerstone of care in Scotland.
Royal Air Forces Association
The Royal Air Forces Association offers retirement accommodation to RAF veterans at its Dowding House facility in Moffat. Tenants must be able to live an independent life, albeit within a secure environment.
Need more options?
The GOV.UK veteran support directory allows you to search and filter organisations in one place. It’s a helpful tool for finding services that fit your situation.
You deserve comfort, dignity and support
Whether you’re considering a care home or exploring independent supported accommodation, there are trusted organisations ready to help you take the next step.
A safe, welcoming community is out there, and it’s designed with veterans in mind.