Not every health or social care service needs to register with the CQC, but most do. The types of organisations that must register include:

• Care homes providing residential or nursing care.
• Healthcare providers, including GP practices, dental practices, and private hospitals.
• Mental health services offering treatment, care, or advice.
• Substance misuse services providing treatment or support.
• Supported living services that provide personal care.

If your organisation provides one or more regulated activities, you are legally required to register with the CQC before commencing any services.

Regulated activities are specific types of care or treatment that must be registered with the CQC. These include, but are not limited to:

• Personal care - Helping people with personal hygiene, dressing, and eating.
• Treatment of disease, disorder, or injury - Medical care provided in various settings, including hospitals and clinics.
• Surgical procedures - Any invasive surgery.
• Diagnostic and screening procedures - Including X-rays, MRI scans, and blood tests.
• Nursing care - Care provided by a qualified nurse.
• Maternity and midwifery services - Care provided during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal support.
• Residential accommodation - Providing accommodation along with nursing or personal care.

It’s essential to identify which regulated activities your organisation will provide, as this will determine your registration requirements.

Registering with the CQC involves several key steps, each requiring careful attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Step 1 - Identify your regulated activities

Begin by determining which regulated activities your organisation will offer. This will guide the entire registration process and ensure you apply for the correct services.

Step 2 - Appoint a Nominated Individual

Every organisation must appoint a Nominated Individual. This person is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the regulated activities. They must have the necessary skills, experience, and knowledge to ensure compliance with CQC regulations.

Step 3 - Appoint a Registered Manager

For most services, you’ll also need a Registered Manager. This person is responsible for the overall management of the service and must demonstrate their suitability through qualifications and experience. The Registered Manager must undergo a “fit and proper person” test as part of the registration process.

Step 4 - Complete the application form

The application form is detailed and requires comprehensive information about your organisation, including the Nominated Individual and Registered Manager. You must provide details on the regulated activities, the service’s location, and your organisation’s structure.

Step 5 - Prepare supporting documents

You’ll need to submit several documents with your application, including:

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for the Nominated Individual and Registered Manager.
• Proof of identity for key individuals.
• Financial references to demonstrate the financial stability of the organisation.
• Business plan outlining your service provision.
• Policies and procedures that demonstrate how you will meet the CQC’s fundamental standards.

Step 6 - Submit your application

Once the application form and supporting documents are complete, submit them to the CQC. Be sure to double-check all details, as any errors or omissions can delay the process.

Step 7 - CQC assessment and interview

After submitting your application, the CQC will assess it to ensure all necessary information has been provided. This is followed by an interview, typically with the Nominated Individual and Registered Manager, to evaluate their understanding of their roles and responsibilities.

Step 8 - CQC decision

If the CQC is satisfied with your application and interview, they will grant registration. However, they may impose conditions if they identify areas that need improvement.

Expected timelines

The registration process can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the completeness of the submitted information. Here’s a rough timeline:

• Week 1-2 - Preparing the application and gathering supporting documents.
• Week 3-4 - Submitting the application and initial CQC assessment.
• Week 5-8 - Interview with CQC, followed by further assessments.
• Week 9-12 - CQC decision and confirmation of registration.

It’s important to plan for potential delays, especially if the CQC requests additional information.

• The role of the Nominated Individual - This person is the main point of contact with the CQC and ensures the service meets all regulatory requirements. They play a pivotal role in maintaining compliance and should deeply understand the service and its obligations.
• The role of the Registered Manager - Often seen as the backbone of the service, the Registered Manager is responsible for the day-to-day running of the service, ensuring that care is delivered safely and effectively. Their role is critical in maintaining high standards of care and compliance.
• Fit and Proper Persons Requirement (FPPR) - The Nominated Individual and the Registered Manager must meet the FPPR criteria, ensuring they are suitable for their roles. This includes checks on their qualifications, experience, and background.

Registering with the CQC is a rigorous process, but it’s an essential step in providing high-quality care. By understanding the requirements and preparing thoroughly, you can confidently navigate the process. Remember, the goal of the CQC is to ensure that all health and social care services meet fundamental standards of quality and safety, ultimately protecting the well-being of the people who use these services.

If you’re considering starting a health or social care business, don’t let the registration process deter you. You can turn your vision into reality with the right support and preparation.