Types of services we regulate

We register a wide range of care services across Scotland to make sure people receive safe, high‑quality support.

These include:

• early learning and childcare services such as childminders, nurseries and school‑age childcare

• care homes for adults and older people

• care homes for children and young people

• housing support and care at home services

• adoption and fostering agencies

• secure accommodation

• nurse agencies

• justice services (offender accommodation).

By registering and regulating these services, we help to ensure that anyone accessing care in Scotland can expect compassionate, consistent and person‑centred support.

If a care service in Scotland fails to register with us, it is breaking the law and cannot legally operate. Running a care service without registration is an offence, and we have the authority to intervene quickly to stop unsafe or illegal practice and safeguard the public.