Getting CQC registration as a new home care business
CQC registration is a mandatory legal requirement, but it also provides access to valuable resources that can help you deliver the highest standard of care.
The application process for CQC registration takes time, so it’s essential to plan ahead and ensure your registration is complete before you begin providing care.
Read on to discover the best ways to manage the CQC registration process efficiently, meet legal requirements, and understand expectations after registration!
Legal requirements of CQC registration
- The Care Quality Commission (CQC) was established in 2009 to regulate health and social care providers, ensuring high standards of care.
- Its regulations are based on the Health and Social Care Act 2008, which outlines the fundamental requirements for delivering care.
- All health and social care providers in England are legally required to register with the Care Quality Commission. CQC Registration must be completed before delivering any care services, so allow sufficient time for the application process. Providing care before full registration is a legal violation.
CQC Countersigned DBS Check
- As a guide, preparing for your application involves setting up processes and systems, employing staff, and carrying out DBS checks. This can take several weeks, so leave at least two months preparation time!
- Once preparations are done, and you’re ready to apply, the CQC application itself can take between 2 to 8 hours to complete.
- The way you need to register depends on whether you are taking over an existing home care agency and keeping the current managers in post – or starting a new home care agency with new managers. Make sure you choose the correct route for your home care agency to speed up the application process!
Demonstrate your competence as a manager
- It is essential to demonstrate that all registered managers are competent and appropriately qualified for their role.
- The CQC requires written proof of qualifications and additional training, including safeguarding, mental capacity, consent, and medication management. Supporting evidence may also include references from previous employers and documented relevant experience.
- Registered managers must undergo a DBS check, which must be countersigned by the CQC. This process can take up to 8 weeks to complete.
Understand the relevant legislation
- CQC registration requires you to be able to show good understanding and experience of the relevant laws around delivering care.
- These are the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards.
Show that you have a suitale premises
- Although domiciliary care is provided in clients’ homes, you must still demonstrate to the CQC that your office base is suitable for managing the service effectively.
- The office space must comply with health and safety regulations to ensure staff well-being and provide secure storage for records to maintain client confidentiality.
Prove that your service is financially viable
- The CQC needs to know that you have the funds to provide ongoing care for your clients.
- Prove financial viability with a statement letter from an accountant, bank, or service listed with the Financial Conduct Authority.
- Read more about the information to include in your statement letter here.
Write your statement of purpose
- Your statement of purpose must include the details of your business, aims and objectives, details of registered managers, and where you intend to provide care.
- CQC registration requires you get your statement of purpose right – incomplete information will hold up your application.
Understand the CQC regulations
- Familiarise yourself with the fundamental standards and the Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOEs) set out by the CQC.
- These frameworks cover every aspect of what good care looks like and how you can provide evidence of this in your home care agency.
Steps to get CQC registration
- Show how you can meet CQC KLOEs and fundamental standards
- Get a statement letter from an accountant or bank to prove your financial viability.
- Make sure your premises are fit for purpose. They must meet health and safety regulations and have secure storage for client records!
- Read through the Health and Social Care Act and the Mental Capacity Act and show how you meet requirements.
- Gather evidence that demonstrates the competency of your registered manager.
- Write your statement of purpose