The thirty-sixth edition of the Care Homes for Older People UK Market Report is essential reading for advisors, operators, investors, commissioners, and policymakers involved in nursing and residential care services across the UK for people aged 65 and over. It provides a trusted and comprehensive view of the sector, helping stakeholders validate key assumptions, assess market performance, and understand the impact of ongoing change at both a national and local level.
This latest edition examines the continued growth of the market, with the annualised value of residential care reaching £27.3 billion in 2025/26. It explores the key drivers behind this expansion, particularly sustained fee increases linked to rising operating costs, including National Living Wage uplifts and wider inflationary pressures. The report also highlights the strength of the private pay segment, now valued at £14.1 billion and accounting for 55% of total independent market value, as well as the increasing influence of larger operators within a more consolidated landscape.
In addition, the report provides detailed analysis of regional fee variations, highlighting clear differences in pricing across the UK, alongside insights into capacity trends, market concentration, and competitive positioning. With comprehensive data, visualisations, and expert commentary, it offers a robust benchmarking tool to support strategic decision-making and future planning. For those looking to build a broader understanding of the UK social care landscape, it can be read alongside related sector reports such as Homecare and Supported Living, Adult Specialist Care, and, Children’s Services to provide a more complete market view.
- Operators of residential care and nursing homes
- Nursing agency operators
- Homecare agencies and providers
- Private equity and infrastructure investors
- REITs
- Developers
- Directors of adult social services
- Local authority commissioners
- Care advisors
- Management consultants
- Business advisors
- Long-term care insurance providers
- Central government
- Think tanks
- Policy writers
