Care homes can be a suitable option for people whose needs mean that living at home is no longer practical, even with support.
For many people, this is a longer‑term decision, although some care homes also offer short‑term or respite care.
Support is available in Perth & Kinross to help people and families understand their options, find appropriate care, and access advice at the right time.
Who this information is for
This information may be helpful if you:
- Are considering a care home for yourself or someone else
- Are supporting an older family member or friend
- Are worried about safety or support needs at home
- Need information following a change in health or circumstances
- Want to understand what care home support involves
You do not need to have made a decision to access advice.
Types of care homes
There are different types of care homes depending on individual needs, including:
- Residential care homes, which provide personal care and daily support
- Nursing care homes, which also provide nursing care
- Dementia‑specific care homes, offering specialist support and environments
- Short‑term or respite care, providing temporary support or a break for carers
In some cases, additional support at home or community‑based services may be suitable alternatives. Information about these options is available in Support at home .
Finding a care home in Perth & Kinross
A full list of registered care homes across Perth & Kinross is available in our Directory of care homes, which includes details about location, services and inspection reports. You can also view a map of residential care homes in Perth and Kinross via ArcGIS.
All care homes must be registered with the Care Inspectorate, which regulates and inspects care services in Scotland. Inspection reports for individual care homes are available on the Care Inspectorate website.
Quality and safety
We want everyone living in a care home to receive safe, high‑quality care.
All adults living in care homes are protected by our Adult support and protection procedures. These are in place to help keep people safe from harm, neglect or exploitation.
Care homes are required to meet national standards and are monitored through regular inspections to ensure quality of care.
Paying for care
Care home costs vary depending on the type of care needed and individual circumstances. Some people may be eligible for free personal care, while others may be required to contribute towards costs following a financial assessment.
Clear information about funding, charges and financial assessments is available in Paying for care and free personal care.
Independent advice about care funding is also available from Age Scotland and Citizens Advice Scotland.
Getting help and support
Referrals to care homes are often made through a GP or a social worker who is already working with the individual.
If you are not currently in contact with a social worker and would like to explore whether a care home - or another type of support - may be suitable, you can request an assessment by visiting Accessing care.
If you need help following a hospital discharge or in an urgent situation, contact the Early Intervention and Prevention Team via Accessing care. Support is also available out of hours if needed.
Perth and Kinross Care Home Activity Network (CHAN)
The Perth and Kinross Care Home Activity Network (CHAN) was established in 2010. It provides a forum for activity leads from care homes to come together throughout the year to collaborate, communicate, share, support, network and learn.
Information for care home providers
Information aimed at care home owners, managers and staff is available in Learning and guidance.
