Understanding CQC Fundamental Standards: A Provider Guide

What are the Fundamental Standards?

The fundamental standards are the minimum standards of care that all CQC registered providers must meet. They are set out in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 and apply to all health and adult social care services in England.

Person-Centred Care (Regulation 9)

Care and treatment must be appropriate, meet the service user's needs, and reflect their preferences. This requires thorough assessment, care planning that involves the individual, and regular review of care arrangements.

Dignity and Respect (Regulation 10)

Service users must be treated with dignity and respect. This includes respecting privacy, supporting autonomy, and protecting people from discrimination. Staff training and culture are crucial to embedding these values.

Need for Consent (Regulation 11)

Care and treatment must only be provided with the consent of the service user, or in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 where capacity is lacking. Robust consent processes and mental capacity assessments are essential.

Safe Care and Treatment (Regulation 12)

Care and treatment must be provided in a safe way. This encompasses risk assessment, infection control, medication management, safe staffing levels, and equipment safety.

Safeguarding (Regulation 13)

Service users must be protected from abuse and improper treatment. Providers must have effective safeguarding systems, trained staff, and clear reporting procedures.

Meeting Nutritional Needs (Regulation 14)

The nutritional and hydration needs of service users must be met. This requires assessment of dietary needs, provision of appropriate food and drink, and support with eating and drinking where needed.

Premises and Equipment (Regulation 15)

Premises and equipment used must be clean, suitable for the intended purpose, properly maintained, and used safely. Regular audits and maintenance schedules demonstrate compliance.

Receiving and Acting on Complaints (Regulation 16)

Providers must have an accessible complaints system and investigate and respond to complaints appropriately. Complaints should drive service improvement.

Good Governance (Regulation 17)

Systems and processes must be established to ensure compliance with the fundamental standards. This includes quality assurance, risk management, and effective leadership.

Staffing (Regulation 18)

Sufficient numbers of suitably qualified, competent, skilled, and experienced staff must be deployed. This includes safe recruitment, ongoing training, and appropriate supervision.

Fit and Proper Persons (Regulation 19)

Individuals employed as directors must be fit and proper persons. Providers must have processes to assess and monitor the fitness of those in director-level roles.

Duty of Candour (Regulation 20)

Providers must be open and transparent with service users when things go wrong, including notification, apology, and explanation of what happened and what will be done to prevent recurrence.