Inspection and Regulation

CQC sets out key principles to get the most out of inspection

The Care Quality Commission has come together with trade associations and other partners from across the adult social care sector to set out key principles and a shared understanding, ensuring everyone gets the most out of inspection.

The newly-published document, How to get the msot out of inspection, addresses some of the common misunderstandings and describes clear expectations to ensure effective joint working which will ultimately result in better care for people.

At the heart of the new publication is the need to establish good communication and an understanding that everyone is working to achieve the same outcome: great quality care for people using services. It also recognises the need for respect and dignity of all parties during an inspection as one of the key themes running throughout all stages of an inspection.

Routine inspections have been paused at present, though the CQC continues to inspect in response to risk and concerns raised, with services remaining subject to close monitoring using a range of intelligence sources.

Sue Howard, Deputy Chief Inspector for Adult Social Care, said: "I am delighted that we have been able to come together constructively to draw up these guidelines which will benefit care providers and their staff, our inspectors and the people using the service.

"As the adult social care sector continues to adjust to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to establish mutual understanding and support in carrying out inspections."

Lisa Lenton, Chair, Care Providers Alliance, added: "Effective relationships are based on communication and collaboration and we welcome this document that outlines the expectations for both providers and inspectors during an inspection.

“This has been a joint piece of work between CQC and provider representative bodies to set these key principles to ensure everyone involved gets the most from inspection - most importantly of course, for the benefit people who access care and support services."

The following organisations contributed to the development of these guidelines:

• Care Quality Commission
• ARC England
• Care Association Alliance
• Care England
• Cornwall Partners in Care
• National Association of Care & Support Workers
• National Care Association
• National Care Forum
• The Outstanding Society
• Shared Lives Plus
• Voluntary Organisations Disability Group
• United Kingdom Home Care Association
• National Dignity Council
• The Associated Retirement Community Operators