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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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CQC Inspection Ratings Display Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} complies with Regulation 20A of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, which requires the conspicuous and legible display of CQC inspection ratings. This policy outlines how we ensure full compliance and maintain transparency about our performance to people we support, staff, visitors, and the wider public. By implementing this policy, we aim to build trust, demonstrate accountability, and promote confidence in the quality of care we provide.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all {{org_field_name}} care home locations and websites where regulated activities are carried out. It is relevant to all staff, management, and external stakeholders responsible for the publication and maintenance of inspection ratings in physical and digital formats. It ensures that all individuals, including people with disabilities, visitors, prospective people we support, and regulatory bodies, can access and understand our inspection ratings without barriers.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• Regulation 20A – Requirement as to Display of Performance Assessments – mandates that CQC ratings are displayed prominently on the provider’s premises and website. Providers must ensure ratings are up to date and legible.
• Health and Social Care Act 2008 – ensures transparency and accountability in regulated care services by requiring open communication about service quality.
• Duty of Candour (Regulation 20) – promotes openness and honesty in care provision. Providers must be forthright in sharing inspection results with stakeholders.
• Equality Act 2010 – ensures that displayed information is accessible to all, including people with disabilities, in various formats and languages.

4. Related Policies

To ensure consistency in regulatory compliance and transparency, this policy aligns with:

• CH04 – Good Governance Policy – Ensures sound decision-making and compliance with care standards.
• CH35 – Duty of Candour Policy – Supports openness about service quality and inspections.
• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy – Ensures safety measures when placing physical rating displays.
• CH30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy – Ensures accessibility and fairness in information sharing.
• CH42 – Communication and Engagement with People We Support and Families Policy – Encourages clear, transparent, and accessible communication with stakeholders.

5. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to maintaining transparency regarding the quality of our services. We ensure that our CQC ratings are displayed prominently in all required locations, enabling people we support, staff, families, and visitors to make informed decisions about our care services. This policy sets out how we manage this process efficiently and in compliance with CQC requirements. By following this policy, we guarantee that ratings are updated promptly, are easy to understand, and remain accessible to all who require the information.

6. Displaying Inspection Ratings

a. Physical Display of CQC Ratings

• CQC inspection ratings must be displayed at all {{org_field_name}} locations where care is provided, ensuring that people we support, visitors, and staff can view them easily.
• Posters must be placed at the main entrance, reception areas, and other high-visibility points to ensure maximum visibility.
• Ratings must be printed in large, clear, and legible text with contrasting colours to enhance readability for individuals with visual impairments.
• If multiple services operate at the same location, separate ratings must be displayed accordingly to prevent confusion.
• The poster must include the rating, date of inspection, and a brief summary of the findings.

b. Digital Display of CQC Ratings

• Ratings must be published on {{org_field_website}} in an easily accessible location, such as the homepage or a dedicated compliance section.
• The digital display must include:
  • A direct link to the full CQC report on the CQC website.
  • The date of the last inspection for transparency.
  • A summary of the findings, highlighting key points from the report.
• Social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, should be used to communicate any updated ratings to stakeholders to enhance visibility and awareness.

c. Accessibility and Alternative Formats

• CQC ratings must be available in alternative formats, such as large print, Braille, and easy-read versions, to ensure inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
• The information must also be available in multiple languages where required, considering the diverse backgrounds of the people we support and their families.
• Staff must be trained to verbally communicate ratings and inspection outcomes when requested, ensuring individuals who may struggle with written formats can still receive the information effectively.

7. Updating and Monitoring Ratings Display

• Regular Audits – The Registered Manager must conduct monthly checks to ensure compliance with display requirements, verifying that posters are intact, up to date, and positioned correctly.
• Updating Ratings – Whenever a new rating is issued, the updated information must be displayed within 5 working days of receiving the report to ensure compliance with CQC regulations.
• Incident Reporting – Any missing, damaged, or incorrect rating displays must be reported immediately, and corrective action must be taken without delay to ensure continuous compliance.
• Stakeholder Engagement – People we support and their families should be informed of any changes in ratings through newsletters, meetings, and digital communications.

8. Staff Responsibilities

• Registered Manager: Ensures compliance with CQC display regulations and oversees regular audits of physical and digital displays.
• Admin and Facilities Team: Responsible for printing, distributing, and maintaining physical posters across all premises, ensuring they remain intact and visible.
• IT and Website Team: Updates the website and social media platforms with the latest ratings, ensuring digital compliance and accessibility.
• All Staff: Must be aware of the latest CQC rating and be prepared to communicate it to people we support and visitors when asked. Staff should be trained to explain what the rating means and how to direct individuals to the full report.

9. Compliance and Consequences

Failure to comply with Regulation 20A can result in enforcement action by CQC, including formal warnings, financial penalties, and reputational damage. {{org_field_name}} is committed to full compliance, and non-adherence to this policy may result in:

• Internal disciplinary action for staff responsible for non-compliance.
• Immediate corrective measures to rectify any display shortcomings, ensuring no gaps in transparency.
• Formal communication with CQC to resolve any compliance concerns and prevent further action.
• Increased staff training and audits to reinforce regulatory obligations and best practices in rating displays.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in CQC regulations or business needs require amendments. Feedback from staff, people we support, and external regulators will be considered in the review process to ensure continuous improvement and compliance.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.