Navigating Regulatory Changes in Adult Social Care
- rachmunda
- Sep 29, 2024
- 2 min read
The adult social care scene, especially care homes, is going through some big regulatory changes to make care better, more transparent, and easier to manage. Whether you're a care provider, a family member, or just curious about how care homes work, these updates will influence how care is delivered.
1. Assessment Framework
In January 2024, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rolled out a new assessment framework. This new system includes 34 quality statements that care homes and other social care providers need to meet. The aim is to make inspections more detailed and transparent. Care providers should expect a tougher review of their services, which will lift the quality of care overall.
The new framework will also check on local authorities and integrated care systems to make sure they're giving the best support to care homes in their areas. These checks are part of a nationwide push to raise standards in the health and social care system.
2. Digital Transformation: The New CQC Portal
Digitalisation is another big change care homes need to get used to. The CQC launched its digital portal in February 2024. This portal makes it easier to submit notifications, register services, and stay compliant. Going digital saves time and makes interactions with the regulatory body smoother for care homes.
For care providers, this means better communication with the CQC and faster processing of applications or notifications, cutting down on paperwork and letting them focus more on care.
3. Managing Care Home Closures
Another important update is the improved guidance on handling care home closures. While closures are rare, they can have a big impact on residents, families, and staff. The new guidelines, made with NHS England, local authorities, and the Care Provider Alliance (CPA), focus on reducing disruptions when a care home needs to close unexpectedly.
This guidance makes sure that everyone involved—from local authorities to the CQC—works together to help residents, with clear communication and detailed planning to make transitions as smooth as possible.
4. Increased Accountability for Local Authorities
Local authorities will be under more scrutiny as they now face formal CQC assessments. These assessments make sure that local authorities are offering enough support and resources to care providers, which is key for keeping up with the new standards.
What This Means for Care Providers
These changes are a chance for care homes to boost their services and for families to trust the system more. Providers should get ready for more detailed inspections and embrace digital changes to stay ahead. For residents and families, these changes mean better care, clearer communication, and smoother transitions during tough times.
Care providers need to keep up and be proactive in making these changes work. The goal is a higher level of care that puts residents' well-being, safety, and dignity first.
Click the link for the latest updates https://www.cqc.org.uk/
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