Scotland · Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation

Rehab Centres in Edinburgh

Q: How do I find a rehab centre in Edinburgh?

To find rehab in Edinburgh, speak to your GP for an NHS referral, call Frank (0300 123 6600) to be directed to local services, or contact a private rehab centre directly. Private rehab can often be accessed within 24–72 hours without a referral.

Q: How much does rehab in Edinburgh cost?

NHS rehab in Edinburgh is free but may have a waiting list of several weeks. Private residential rehab near Edinburgh typically costs £3,000–£15,000 for a 28-day programme. Day programmes (outpatient) are usually £1,000–£5,000. Many private centres offer payment plans.

Q: What is the difference between residential and outpatient rehab?

Residential rehab means you live at the treatment centre, typically for 28–90 days, receiving intensive therapy and 24/7 support. Outpatient rehab lets you live at home while attending daily or weekly sessions. Residential rehab has higher success rates for severe addiction but is more expensive.

Q: How long does rehab take?

Most residential rehab programmes last 28 days, though 60 or 90-day stays produce better outcomes. NHS community programmes typically run for 3–6 months of regular appointments. Detox alone usually takes 5–10 days. Recovery is a long-term process that continues after formal treatment ends.

Q: Can I get rehab on the NHS in Edinburgh?

Yes. NHS-funded rehab is available in Edinburgh through your local drug and alcohol service. Speak to your GP or self-refer to the local service to start the process. NHS residential rehab is also available for more severe cases, though waiting times can be several months.

Q: What happens in rehab?

Rehab typically begins with a medical detox to safely clear the substance from your body. This is followed by therapeutic work — individual counselling, group therapy, CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), 12-step meetings, and relapse prevention planning. Aftercare support follows when you leave.

Q: Do I need a referral for private rehab near Edinburgh?

No. Private rehab centres accept self-referrals directly. You can call any private centre and they will carry out an initial assessment — often the same day. Some will arrange transport to the facility for you. Treatment can start within 24–72 hours.

Q: Is rehab confidential?

Yes. All rehab treatment — NHS and private — is fully confidential. Your employer cannot be told about your treatment without your consent. Medical records are protected. The only exception is if a clinician believes you or someone else is at immediate risk of serious harm.

Edinburgh has a longstanding and complex relationship with drug and alcohol dependency, dating back to the heroin epidemic of the 1980s which shaped the modern harm reduction approach adopted across Scotland. Drug and alcohol treatment in Edinburgh is provided through NHS Lothian and commissioned through the Edinburgh Alcohol and Drug Partnership. The city has residential rehab facilities including Castle Craig in Peeblesshire within easy reach. Edinburgh also has thriving Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous communities, with meetings running daily.

✓ 2 CQC-registered services listed

Need help now? Call Frank free on 0300 123 6600 — available 24/7

Medically reviewed and updated May 2026· CQC data: April 2026

Nearest rehab centres to Edinburgh

Showing 2 CQC-registered centres from Livingston (21 km away) — these centres may accept referrals.

County Livingston Rehabilitation Centre

Residential · Private · 64 Station Road

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How much does rehab cost in Edinburgh?

Rehab costs in Edinburgh vary significantly depending on whether you use NHS or private services. NHS treatment is free but may involve a waiting list. Private rehab can begin within days.

Type	Cost	Duration	Notes
NHS community programme	Free	3–6 months	GP referral or self-referral
NHS residential rehab	Free	28–90 days	Waiting list may apply
Private outpatient	£1,000–£5,000	4–12 weeks	Live at home
Private residential (standard)	£3,000–£8,000	28 days	All inclusive
Private residential (premium)	£8,000–£20,000+	28–90 days	Luxury facilities

How to access rehab in Edinburgh

Call Frank or your GPFrank (0300 123 6600) can advise on local options and referral routes. Your GP can refer you to NHS services.
Get assessedA drug and alcohol worker will carry out an assessment to understand your needs and recommend the right level of care.
Choose NHS or privateNHS is free but may have waiting times. Private rehab can begin within 24–72 hours and some centres offer payment plans.
Begin treatmentTreatment typically starts with a medical detox, followed by residential or community-based therapeutic work.
Plan your aftercareGood rehab includes an aftercare plan — follow-up appointments, 12-step meetings, sober living, or outpatient support.