CHW03-Requirements for Registered Managers Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Requirements for Registered Managers Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out the requirements for Registered Managers within {{org_field_name}} in compliance with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, the Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, and the latest Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) guidance. The policy ensures that all Registered Managers meet the statutory requirements and are equipped to deliver high-quality care services, ensuring the well-being and safety of individuals using the service. This policy also outlines the key responsibilities of Registered Managers in leading, managing, and improving the care services provided within our organisation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all Registered Managers within {{org_field_name}} and any individuals in leadership roles responsible for overseeing the effective running of our care home. It also applies to Responsible Individuals who have a duty to supervise and support Registered Managers in their role. The policy extends to all aspects of care home management, including governance, compliance, workforce management, safeguarding, and quality assurance, ensuring a holistic approach to leadership and service provision.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is designed in accordance with the following legal and regulatory frameworks, which provide the foundation for all Registered Manager responsibilities and accountabilities:

Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016 – Establishes the framework for the registration, regulation, and inspection of social care services in Wales.
The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017 – Outlines the specific responsibilities of service providers and responsible individuals in ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.
The Regulated Services (Registration) (Wales) Regulations 2017 – Details the registration requirements for service providers and responsible individuals.
CIW Guide to Registration (2024) – Provides the process and criteria for the registration of managers and service providers with CIW.
CIW Interim Guidance on Ratings (2023) – Details the methodology used by CIW to rate care home services and ensure accountability.

4. Requirements for Registered Managers

4.1. Registration and Compliance All Registered Managers must be registered with Social Care Wales and maintain this registration throughout their tenure. They must meet the “fit and proper person” test, which includes:

Holding the relevant Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care Services (Adults’ Residential Management) (Wales) or an equivalent qualification.
Demonstrating good character, honesty, and integrity in their professional and personal conduct.
Being physically and mentally capable of performing their duties to ensure they can lead effectively.
Having no disqualifying criminal offences or professional misconduct findings that could compromise their suitability.
Demonstrating competency in leadership, governance, and regulatory compliance through ongoing professional development and training.

4.2. Leadership and Governance

Registered Managers are accountable for the overall management, quality, and safety of the care home. They must:

Provide strong leadership and direction to all staff, ensuring a clear vision and objectives for service delivery.
Implement and maintain robust governance arrangements that ensure full legal and regulatory compliance.
Ensure that staffing levels are sufficient to meet the needs of residents, with staff possessing the appropriate skills, training, and experience.
Conduct regular audits and quality reviews to identify strengths and areas requiring improvement.
Foster a culture of openness, accountability, and transparency, where staff feel empowered to report concerns and contribute to continuous service enhancement.

4.3. Care Quality and Continuous Improvement

Registered Managers must implement a Quality of Care Review in line with CIW’s guidance. This includes:

Ensuring services are person-centred, respectful, and promote dignity, aligning with best practices in social care.
Complying with CIW inspection standards, including the SOFI2 (Short Observational Framework for Inspection) methodology, which evaluates service user experiences and staff engagement.
Implementing continuous improvement plans to address areas identified through CIW inspections, internal audits, and resident feedback.
Using resident feedback, complaints, and safeguarding reports to drive service improvements, ensuring all voices are heard and acted upon.

4.4. Safeguarding and Well-being

Registered Managers have a legal duty to ensure the protection and well-being of residents. They must:

Implement and oversee the Safeguarding Policy, ensuring all staff are aware of their responsibilities in preventing abuse and neglect.
Ensure that staff are trained in safeguarding and whistleblowing procedures, empowering them to identify and report concerns effectively.
Report all safeguarding concerns to the appropriate local authority and CIW in a timely and thorough manner.
Promote a culture of zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, and poor care practices, creating a safe and secure environment for residents.

4.5. Training, Development, and Supervision

To ensure competency, Registered Managers must:

Undertake ongoing professional development and maintain a record of their CPD (Continuous Professional Development) to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Ensure that all staff receive regular training, supervision, and appraisals, supporting their professional growth and maintaining high care standards.
Foster a culture of learning and reflective practice to improve the quality of care provided, encouraging staff to engage in knowledge-sharing and skill-building activities.

4.6. CIW Inspections and Compliance Monitoring

Registered Managers must ensure that the care home is fully prepared for CIW inspections. This includes:

Providing inspectors with full access to records and documentation, ensuring transparency and cooperation during inspections.
Responding promptly and effectively to inspection reports and improvement notices, demonstrating a commitment to continuous service enhancement.
Ensuring all statutory notifications are submitted to CIW in accordance with regulatory requirements, avoiding potential breaches of compliance obligations.

5. Related Policies

CHW01: Fit and Proper Persons: Directors Policy
CHW02: Fit and Proper Persons: Employed Staff Policy
CHW04: Good Governance
CHW07: Person-Centred Care Policy
CHW13: Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
CHW27: Staff Supervision, Training, and Development Policy
CHW34: Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, CIW regulations, or operational needs. Updates will be communicated to all relevant staff to ensure compliance and best practice within {{org_field_name}}.

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}}
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