North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership

It’s usually better for your mental and physical health to remain in your own home for as long as possible, supported by family, friends and your local community.

However, staying in your own home may not be possible due to ill health, a disability or frailty.

Being cared for by someone else, in a homely setting, is an alternative.

What’s the difference between residential and nursing care?

In a residential care home, trained social care staff provide a safe place for those who can no longer be supported at home.

In a nursing care home, qualified nursing staff provide intensive health care.

Which care home will I live in?

If you are eligible for funding by local authority, we will help you to identify a residential or nursing care home of your choice. Care Inspectorate has a search facility of registered care homes in Scotland.

What happens next?

If you think you (or someone you care for) may need residential or nursing care, contact your local Health and Social Care Partnership office.

Your health and social care needs and your financial situation will be assessed as follows:

Needs assessment

We will assess your needs, and if it is possible for you to remain at home, we will explore options to support you.

If the assessment confirms that you need residential or nursing care, you must undergo a financial assessment.

Financial assessment

The financial assessment will identify what your contribution will be towards your care costs.

The Scottish Government Charging for Residential Accommodation Guidance is applied during the assessment.