Care homes and supported accommodation for veterans in England and Wales: the right choice for you
If you’re a veteran and living at home is becoming difficult, you deserve a place where you can feel safe, supported and part of a community. Care homes and supported accommodation can offer veterans and their families comfort, routine, social connection and expert support from people who understand the needs of 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.
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This guidance is for England and Wales. There are separate guides for Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Thinking about a care home?
A care home can be a good option if you need regular support with daily living.
What you get in a care home
- help with washing, dressing and meals
- nursing care, if you need it
- opportunities to make new friends
- activities and structured routines
- a safe environment with staff available
Moving into a care home can make life easier, safer and more sociable.
Prefer to stay more independent?
Supported accommodation could be the right fit if you want to live more independently but still have support nearby.
What supported accommodation offers
- your own space with more independence
- a community of other veterans
- shared social spaces
- support services when you need them
- options for partners or families in some areas
These properties are usually rented and offer a balance of independence and support.
Choosing the right option
You might prefer a care home if you:
- need regular support with daily tasks
- want a structured environment, with care available at all times
Supported accommodation may suit you if you:
- want to stay independent
- only need occasional or flexible support
Check if your council can help pay for care
Before making any decisions, it’s worth finding out whether your council can contribute to your care costs.
You can ask your local council for a free needs assessment. This looks at:
- the support you need
- equipment or adaptations that could help
- whether you are eligible for funding
Anyone can request one, and it helps you understand what care, equipment or funding you may be entitled to.
This is often the first step to accessing care or housing support.
Organisations that can help you find a care home
If you’re not sure where to start, or want help exploring all your options (not just veteran‑specific homes), these organisations can offer free advice, guidance and support.
Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion can help you understand your options and guide you through the process of finding suitable care. They can also provide practical and financial support for veterans and their families, including advice on care funding.
Age UK
Age UK offers free, independent advice on choosing a care home, understanding costs and navigating the care system. They can help you compare options and make informed decisions about what’s right for you.
Age Cymru (Wales)
Age Cymru provides similar support in Wales, including guidance on care homes, funding and local services. They understand the Welsh care system and can help you find options near you.
SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity
SSAFA supports veterans and their families with practical advice on housing and care options. Their trained caseworkers can help you understand what support is available and guide you through applications and next steps.
Organisations that provide veteran-specific care homes or supported living accommodation
Several veteran‑focused organisations offer care homes, supported accommodation, or both.
Royal British Legion Care Homes
The Royal British Legion runs 6 purpose‑built care homes across England offering:
- safe, welcoming environments
- support for independent living
- strong community connections
Royal Star & Garter
Royal Star & Garter offers long-term and short-term nursing care to veterans at its nursing homes situated across England.
They also offer a telephone friendship service.
Blind Veterans UK
If you’re a veteran living with sight loss, Blind Veterans UK offers:
- residential care
- ongoing support, remotely and at home
- a community where veterans can meet, share experiences and stay active
Their Rustington Centre of Wellbeing on the south coast of England offers residential and nursing stays for blind veterans.
Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society
The Royal Alfred provides long and short-term nursing care to veterans and their loved ones. Their estate in Surrey offers both long-term and short-term respite care open to all, as well as independent sheltered housing for retired seafarers.
Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
Provides specialist veteran care and nursing homes for Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel and their families.
Their homes offer:
- a strong focus on dignity, respect and veteran community
- residential and nursing care
- specialist dementia support
Royal British Veterans Enterprise
Royal British Veterans Enterprise offers:
- tailored housing support
- family‑friendly veteran accommodation
- a range of assisted living options
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.