Good quality regulation: How CQC can support trusts to deliver and improve

This report outlines key areas for improvement to enhance support and constructive engagement between CQC and trusts. In response to feedback from trust leaders indicating declining confidence in the regulatory body, NHS Providers has conducted extensive research to identify the characteristics of effective quality and safety regulation.

The report's ten recommendations to update CQC's approach include:

• Building the relationships between the regulator’s local teams and providers.
• Improving the training, attitude and behaviours of CQC inspection teams.
• Better reflecting challenging operational circumstances in its reports.
• Leveraging the new assessment framework to provide a more accurate and comprehensive picture of quality.
• Reviewing the effectiveness of its single-word ratings.

The report also emphasises the importance of “right-touch” regulation principles, including proportionality, consistency, transparency, and agility, as well as the concept of responsive regulation.