Updated guidance on completing the quality of care review now available

What's changed?

The guidance and template have been in place for several years. This update reflects wider changes to the regulatory landscape, incorporates best practice, and responds to feedback from across the sector.

The updated guidance:

• supports providers to move beyond compliance towards embedding continuous improvement as part of everyday practice
• clarifies the roles and responsibilities of service providers, responsible individuals and managers
• aligns the quality of care review report template with the four key themes considered during inspection: well-being, care and support, environment, and leadership and management
• encourages providers to use the guidance alongside RI visits, Annual Returns and Statements of Purpose to drive better outcomes for people

Developed collaboratively

This update was developed in partnership with providers, commissioners and CIW inspectors. We wanted to ensure the guidance remains practical, relevant and genuinely useful for those delivering care.

We’d also like to extend our thanks to providers receiving this bulletin who helped shape these updates.

What providers need to do

Although it isn’t mandatory for providers to use this revised guidance it offers a valuable, structured framework for self-evaluation and improvement. Completing your quality of care review will also help you prepare for and strengthen your annual return submission.

We encourage all providers to review the updated guidance and consider how it can support their continuous improvement work.