In Scotland and Finland, a relatively small proportion of older people are in some form of residential care, but their numbers are not insubstantial given generally increased longevity. Moreover, those currently in residential care tend to be among the most vulnerable survivors of their generation. Residential care for older people has always been something of a paradox. The state has extensively recognised the vulnerability of those who can no longer care for themselves, or be cared for by their partner and family. However, provision is seldom adequate for the scale of demand and even commercial provision is characterised by low staffing ratios and unmet training needs. This paper outlines the development of Leonardo funded training materials for use across the European Union.