Care Village Programme

Plans to develop two new care facilities for the Borders were agreed as part of our budget approved on 19 March 2022. One will be located in Tweedbank, covering the central Borders, and the other in Hawick.

Supporting the changing needs of older people

The intention is to provide an innovative new model of residential care, designed specifically to better support the changing needs of older people alongside providing high-quality care and support through proactive early intervention and preventative action aimed at those with complex needs, frailty and dementia.

The concept of a care village model was considered for the way in which it supports unique needs, lifestyles and personal preferences for living, care and well-being for people living mainly with dementia and frailty. The focus is on possibility rather than disability, supported by 24-hour care, delivered by trained professionals.

Project milestones - updated September 2025

A report providing an update on the two developments was presented to Council in August 2025. The recommendations setting out the next steps for the respective projects were also agreed.

Tweedbank

Progress continues on the Tweedbank development, with planning consent granted in July 2025. Enabling works will begin this autumn, with main construction due to start in January 2026 and completion targeted for June 2027.

Hawick

A revised care model for Hawick has been endorsed, focusing on the growing need for Extra Care Housing, enhanced residential and nursing care, bed-based respite, and supported living. Plans include the refurbishment of Deanfield care home, retaining and upgrading existing facilities to meet modern standards.

Work is also progressing with Eildon Housing Association to develop Extra Care Housing and supported accommodation for adults with learning disabilities at the Stirches site, addressing long-standing local needs.

A full business case for the Hawick development will be presented to Council in February 2026 and to the Integration Joint Board in March 2026.

More information

• More information is available in our news story issued on 22 August
• The report can be downloaded from the agenda papers for the Council meeting on 21 August – Item 9

The latest updates and details of the progress made can also be found in our stakeholder updates, available from our website.

More information

Further information will be provided as this becomes available. If you have any queries, please email: ResidentialCareProgramme@scotborders.gov.uk