CQC Inspection Readiness Checklist

🛡️ SAFE

— People are protected from abuse and avoidable harm

Safeguarding policies are up to date and staff know how to raise a concern Risk assessments are in place for all service users and regularly reviewed Incident and accident records are complete, analysed for trends, and show learning Medication management processes are safe (storage, administration, records, audits) Infection prevention and control measures are robust and evidence documented Staffing levels are safe and there is evidence of adequate skill mix Recruitment processes include all required checks (DBS, references, right to work) Equipment is maintained, serviced, and environmental safety checks are current Duty of Candour obligations are understood and applied when things go wrong Lessons learned from incidents are shared with staff and lead to improvements

📊 EFFECTIVE

— Care achieves good outcomes and is evidence-based

Care plans are person-centred, up to date, and reflect current needs Staff training is current, including mandatory training and role-specific competencies Staff receive regular supervision and annual appraisals Outcomes are measured and there is evidence of improvement over time Multi-disciplinary working is in place where appropriate Nutrition and hydration needs are assessed and met Consent processes are in place and documented (MCA/DoLS where applicable) Evidence-based guidelines and best practice are followed Staff can articulate how they deliver effective care in their roles

💛 CARING

— Staff treat people with compassion, dignity, and respect

There is observable evidence of kind, compassionate, and respectful interactions Privacy and dignity are maintained (knocking on doors, closing curtains, respectful language) People are involved in decisions about their care Emotional support is available and people feel listened to Families and carers feel welcome, informed, and involved Feedback from people, families, and staff is positive and documented Independence is promoted and people are supported to do things for themselves Staff know the people they care for well and can describe their preferences

🎯 RESPONSIVE

— Services meet people's individual needs

Care is personalised and responsive to individual preferences and changing needs Complaints procedure is accessible, and complaints are handled promptly with evidence of learning Accessibility needs are met (communication, physical, cultural, spiritual) Activities and engagement are meaningful and tailored to individuals End-of-life care is planned, compassionate, and respects wishes Transitions (admissions, discharges, referrals) are well-managed The service adapts quickly when needs change or deteriorate Information is provided in accessible formats (Easy Read, different languages, etc.)

⭐ WELL-LED

— Leadership, management, and governance assure high-quality care

📝 Notes & Priority Actions

Priority area 1:

Priority area 2: