The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has faced notable challenges in recent times. While the CQC's new Single Assessment Framework may not be entirely fit for purpose for some services, it has the potential to be effective for others. It seems that the home care sector could benefit from the less complicated inspection processes of the recent past and if CQC deliver all that they have promised, it is conceivable that the new Single Assessment Framework could indeed improve the quality of service delivery and outcomes for people using services.
CQC staff under pressure
It is evident that there has been a notable level of disarray within the organisation both prior to and during the introduction of the Single Assessment Framework, with numerous false starts, IT issues and staff clearly struggling with the changes.
The resignation of Ian Trenholm as CQC’s Chief Executive in June 2024 only served to reiterate the turmoil within CQC. Subsequently, Katie Terroni, CQC’s Deputy Chief Executive, has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive. In a statement made in July, she acknowledged:
"We've got things wrong in the implementation of our new regulatory approach. I know that the changes we've delivered so far are not what we promised. It's made things more difficult than they should be. We're not where we want to be, and we're determined to put things right"
It is evident that CQC is fully aware of the challenges surrounding the launch and is dedicated to addressing them as they progress with the new Single Assessment Framework.
Has all of the hard work been in vain?
As the regulator grapples with challenges, it is important to acknowledge the significant effort invested in preparing to comply with the new framework within the health and social care sector. Organisations large and small have devoted months of work to ensure that they are ready to transition to the Single Assessment Framework.
With regards to home care providers, there is a general sense of cautious optimism surrounding the potential effectiveness of the Single Assessment Framework. A recent survey by CareLineLive on the State of Home Care in 2024 revealed that a majority of providers expressed satisfaction with CQC as a regulator, although this sentiment was not universally shared by respondents.
It is critical for the success of the Single Assessment Framework that the Care Quality Commission continue to work with providers in a transparent, open, and collaborative manner while addressing the existing issues.
Where to go for more practical information on what the framework means for providers
Responding to the introduction and ongoing launch of the Single Assessment Framework, the CareLineLive team are keeping pace with updates and relevant information in order to offer clarity on all aspects of the Single Assessment Framework. Follow this link to access our Single Assessment Framework posts and webinar.
It's crucial to remain patient and optimistic at this time, whilst CQC work to find a middle ground rather than completely reverting to previous ways of working.
Let's hope that the solution is viable!
