Rehab in Edinburgh & Scotland: How to Get Help, What It Costs & What to Expect
- Andy MacArthur
- May 16
- 3 min read
If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone close to you is in trouble. Maybe you’ve tried to stop on your own. Maybe the drinking, drug use, or addictive behaviour has become unmanageable. You’re not alone — and more importantly, you don’t have to go through this alone.
Whether you’re in Edinburgh, elsewhere in Scotland, or searching on behalf of someone you love, this guide will walk you through the options for rehab, how to access them, how much they cost, and what to expect along the way.
🧠 What Does “Rehab” Actually Mean?
When people talk about “rehab,” they usually mean a structured residential addiction treatment programme. This typically involves:
Medically supervised detox (if needed)
Daily therapy (1:1 and group)
Recovery coaching
24/7 support from trained staff
It’s designed to interrupt the cycle of addiction in a safe environment — and help you build the tools to stay clean once you leave.
🏥 How Do I Get Into Rehab in Scotland?
There are two main routes: private rehab or NHS/community referral.
✅ 1. Private Rehab
If you’re ready to get help right now, private rehab is usually the fastest option. You can self-refer directly to a treatment centre — sometimes within 24–48 hours.
Private clinics often offer:
On-site detox
En-suite accommodation
Therapy tailored to your needs
Aftercare support
⏳ No waiting lists. No GP referral required.
🩺 2. NHS Rehab / Local Authority Referral
This path usually starts with your GP or local alcohol and drug recovery service (like Edinburgh’s LEAP or We Are With You). They may offer:
Keyworker support
Community detox
Counselling services
Access to residential rehab (via application)
But be aware:
⏱ NHS rehab can take time. Getting a funded residential place often means proving that community-based support hasn’t worked first.
Still — it’s a valid path, and we’ve seen many recover through this route.
💷 How Much Does Rehab Cost in Scotland?
This is one of the most common questions — and a very real concern for many people.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Type of Rehab | Estimated Cost |
NHS-funded placement | £0 (but long waiting time) |
Private rehab (basic) | £2,000–£3,000 per week |
Private rehab (premium) | £5,000+ per week |
Home detox (private) | £1,200–£2,000 total |
Most private rehabs offer payment plans or work with finance providers, meaning you can spread the cost over 6–36 months. For many, it’s cheaper than continuing the cycle of addiction, lost work, and chaos.
👨⚕️ Can My GP Refer Me to Rehab in Scotland?
Yes — your GP can absolutely refer you, especially if you:
Have a history of failed detox attempts
Are at high risk due to mental or physical health issues
Have shown willingness to engage with support services
🔑 Top tip: Be honest with your GP. Tell them you’re ready for help — and ask for a referral to your local addiction service.
In Edinburgh, services like LEAP, Turning Point Scotland, or We Are With You are common routes to support.
🌍 Where Are the Rehab Centres in Scotland?
Scotland has a mix of rehab options:
Private clinics in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and rural retreats
NHS centres and community detox facilities
Faith-based or charity-funded programmes (like the Haven or Teen Challenge)
We can help you navigate what’s available and match you with the right setting — whether you want something local or further afield.
💬 Final Thoughts: What Should You Do Now?
Getting help for addiction is hard — but you don’t need to figure it all out alone. Whether you’re looking for fast access to private rehab, advice on NHS routes, or just someone to talk to who understands, we’re here.
You deserve a fresh start.
Ready to take the first step?📞 Book a free, confidential call with Andy →
🙋♂️ FAQs
How long is rehab in Scotland?
Most private programmes run for 7, 14, or 28 days.
Funded rehab placements may require longer assessments and post-care planning.
Can I go to rehab anonymously?
Yes, especially with private clinics. You don’t need to tell your employer, and your medical information remains confidential.
What if I can’t afford rehab?
Some clinics offer bursaries or low-cost options. You can also explore community-based support while applying for NHS-funded residential rehab.
👣 Next Steps
✅ Want to speak to someone who's been through it? Talk to Andy today.
✅ Need help choosing the right rehab? Checkout my aproved by Andy rehab list
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