What Is a Care Home in the UK?

Updated 30 October 2026 · Educational resource

In the United Kingdom, a care home is a residential setting that provides accommodation and personal care for people who can no longer live independently. Care homes may be run by private companies, charities, or local authorities. They are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, and by equivalent bodies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Residential care homes versus nursing homes

A residential care home provides personal care such as help with washing, dressing, and meals, but does not provide continuous nursing care. A nursing home (sometimes called a care home with nursing) has registered nurses on duty and can meet more complex medical needs. Some homes offer both residential and nursing care on the same site.

Who lives in care homes

Residents are typically older adults, though some homes also support younger adults with disabilities or long-term conditions. Admission usually follows an assessment of care needs by the local authority or NHS, depending on the funding route. Families should ask about the home’s registration, recent CQC rating, and the types of needs it is registered to support.

Disclaimer: Care home regulation and funding differ across the UK nations. This page provides general information for England unless otherwise noted. Always check current rules with the CQC, local authority, or NHS.

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