Care Quality Commission (CQC)

Independent regulator of health and adult social care in England — registers, inspects, and rates providers.

This page applies in England only — different rules may apply in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

Overview

The CQC registers providers, conducts inspections, publishes ratings (Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, Inadequate), and takes enforcement action. It does not handle individual treatment complaints — those go through the provider's process, then to PHSO (NHS) or LGSCO (social care). CQC focuses on systemic concerns and provider compliance with fundamental standards.

What it handles

Provider registration and de-registration
Inspections and ratings
Enforcement notices and prosecutions
Whistleblowing and safeguarding referrals

Official sources

https://www.cqc.org.uk

Last reviewed: 2026-05-21. This is legal information, not legal advice.