Aurrida House

Kirkwall

About Aurrida House

Aurrida House is a children and young people's care home located in Kirkwall, in the Orkney Islands, operated by Orkney Islands Council. At its most recent Care Inspectorate inspection in November 2025, the home achieved an average grade of Very Good, rated 5 out of 6, reflecting a strong commitment to quality care for its residents.

The home provides general care for children and young people, offering a supportive and nurturing environment tailored to the needs of younger residents. As a council-operated service, Aurrida House benefits from the backing of local authority resources and a dedication to delivering consistent, high-quality care within the Orkney Islands community.

Kirkwall, as the main town of the Orkney Islands, provides a community setting where young residents can access local amenities and services. The home's Very Good Care Inspectorate rating gives families confidence in the standard of care provided at Aurrida House.

Last Inspection

14 November 2025

Care Inspectorate Grades

Care homes in Scotland are graded on a 6-point scale (1-6) across five key questions. Grades range from Unsatisfactory (1) to Excellent (6).

Wellbeing Support

How well do we support people's wellbeing?

Very Good5

Care Planning

How good is our care and support planning?

Very Good5

Setting

How good is our setting?

Very Good5

Staff Team

How good is our staff team?

Very Good5

Leadership

How good is our leadership?

Very Good5

View Full Report on Care Inspectorate

5 Questions to Ask on Your Visit

When visiting Aurrida House, consider asking...

1.How do you support young people to maintain contact with their family?
2.What education and skills development is available?
3.How do you handle situations where a young person is distressed or at risk?
4.How are young people involved in decisions about their own care?
5.What does the transition plan look like as a young person approaches adulthood?

5 Things to Look For on Your Visit

When you visit Aurrida House, look out for...

1.Does the environment feel homely and age-appropriate, not institutional?
2.Do staff interact with young people as individuals, not just service users?
3.Is there evidence of personalisation -- young people's own belongings, artwork, choices?
4.Do young people seem comfortable and relaxed around staff?
5.Is the atmosphere positive and nurturing, or tense and controlled?