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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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CQC Inspection Ratings Display Policy

1. Purpose

At {{org_field_name}}, we are committed to full transparency and compliance with CQC regulations regarding the display of inspection ratings. This policy ensures that we meet the legal requirement to prominently display our Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection ratings both physically on our premises and digitally on our website, as mandated by Regulation 20A of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.

This policy outlines the procedures for ensuring the accurate, timely, and accessible display of CQC ratings, allowing individuals receiving support, families, staff, and the public to make informed decisions about our services.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, management, and external stakeholders responsible for managing our CQC inspection ratings and ensuring compliance with display requirements.

3. Related Policies

• SL07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• SL08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
• SL12 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• SL42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy
• SL34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy
• SL17 – Good Governance Policy

4. Legal Requirements for Displaying CQC Ratings

Under Regulation 20A, all care providers must:

• Display the most recent CQC rating at each service location where regulated activities are provided.
• Publish the rating on the provider’s website, if one exists.
• Ensure that the rating is accessible and visible to individuals receiving support, their families, visitors, and staff.
• Ensure that the rating displayed matches exactly the wording provided by the CQC.
• Display the full inspection report or a clear link to the CQC website where the report can be accessed.

5. Procedure for Displaying CQC Ratings

5.1 Physical Display at Premises

• The CQC rating certificate will be displayed prominently in the main reception area or entrance of each service location.
• If multiple entrances exist, additional copies may be displayed to ensure visibility.
• The rating must be displayed in a clear, legible format that is easy to read for individuals with visual impairments.
• If an individual requests an alternative format (e.g., large print, braille, or Easy Read), this must be provided promptly.

5.2 Online Display on the Organisation’s Website

• The CQC rating must be displayed on the homepage of our website with a direct link to the full report on the CQC website.
• The rating must be clearly visible and not hidden within subpages.
• The webpage must include:
  • The current rating (Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate).
  • The date of the last inspection.
  • A link to the full inspection report on the CQC website.
  • A statement that the rating is issued by the Care Quality Commission.
• Regular checks must be conducted to ensure the website displays the most up-to-date rating.

5.3 Informing Individuals Receiving Support and Families

• Upon admission or commencement of service, individuals and their families must be informed about the current CQC rating and what it means.
• A copy of the latest CQC report should be made available upon request.
• Staff should be trained to explain inspection ratings and answer questions from individuals receiving support or their representatives.

5.4 Internal Communication and Staff Awareness

• All staff must be informed about the latest CQC rating as part of team meetings and internal communications.
• Senior management should review the rating and feedback from CQC inspections to implement improvements where necessary.
• Training on CQC rating significance and compliance with display requirements must be part of induction for new staff.

6. Updating CQC Ratings After New Inspections

• When a new CQC inspection rating is issued:
  • The previous rating must be removed immediately.
  • The new rating must be displayed within 21 calendar days of publication by CQC.
  • Digital and physical copies must be updated promptly.
  • The website must reflect the latest rating within the same timeframe.
• Any failure to update ratings within the required timeframe may result in regulatory action from the CQC.

7. Compliance Monitoring

• The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with CQC rating display requirements.
• Regular compliance audits will be conducted to ensure that the correct rating is displayed at all times.
• Feedback will be collected from staff, individuals receiving support, and families to ensure transparency and accessibility.

8. Addressing Non-Compliance

• Any failure to display the correct rating will be treated as a serious compliance issue.
• The Registered Manager must investigate and rectify any missing or incorrect rating displays immediately.
• If an external complaint is received regarding a missing rating, it must be escalated to senior management and resolved within 48 hours.

9. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• All information regarding CQC inspections and ratings must be handled in line with GDPR and confidentiality policies (SL34).
• Any requests for personalised copies of the report should be handled securely to protect sensitive information.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to:

• Changes in CQC regulations.
• New inspection ratings issued by CQC.
• Feedback from individuals receiving support, families, or staff.

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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}}
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