Background
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. Through inspecting, monitoring and regulating services, the CQC aims to make sure health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate and high-quality care.
In 2023, a new single assessment framework was introduced. This framework applies to providers, local authorities and integrated care systems.
Assurance of Local Authority Adult Services
Local authority assessments will be distinct, in that they will focus on the statutory duties contained in the Care Act. The local authority assessments will use quality statements to look at the following four themes:
- working with people – look at assessing needs and supporting people to live healthier lives;
- providing support – care provision, integration and continuity and partnerships and communities;
- ensuring safety – safe systems, pathways and transitions and safeguarding;
- leadership and workforce – governance, management and sustainability and learning, improvement and innovation.
CQC Quality Statements Full List by Themes (pdf, opens in new window)
Publications and Resources for Local Authorities
CQC publications
Assessment Framework for Local Authority Assurance
Local Authority Assessment Reports
Easy Read
What the CQC is checking at all health and social care services
CQC podcasts and presentations
Local Authority Assessments Webinar (CQC YouTube)
Local Authority Question and Answer Session with Community Care (CQC YouTube)
Local Authority Assessment – Test and Learn (CQC Connect Podcast)
Local Authority Assessments Webinar (CQC – YouTube)
Other useful information
Summaries
Assessment of Local Authority Adult Services (Summary, Policy Partners)
Assessment Framework for Local Authority Assurance (Summary, Policy Partners)
Local authority framework: guidance and suggested best practice resources
CQC LA Framework: Guidance and Suggested Best Practice Resources
