We’re a CQC regulated home care agency
That means you get trusted home care from experienced Care Professionals regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), to ensure consistently high care standards for older adults.
What does ‘CQC regulated’ mean?
CQC stands for Care Quality Commission, which is the independent regulator for health and social care in England. The CQC exists to ensure safe, high quality care for older adults and vulnerable people, from compassionate and experienced caregivers with the training to meet their needs.
The CQC offers transparent ratings that help people find the best care options for their loved ones. This also encourages care providers to remain professional, consistent, and to implement strict standards influenced by the CQC. These protocols must be adhered to in order to continue operating in England.
The CQC oversees care provided by:
- Hospitals
- GP surgeries
- Dentists
- Ambulance services
- Mental health services
- Care homes
- At-home caregivers
Why is CQC regulation important?
There are around5.8 million unpaid UK carers, suggesting a potential lack of training or quality care. The CQC works to ensure all services are highly regulated for the protection of vulnerable people, and at Home Instead, we are consistently rated “outstanding” according to standards laid out by the CQC.
Having CQC regulated care can ensure your loved one remains safe and protected at home despite their health conditions or needs. Unlike privately hired caregivers who are not required to have regular training or DBS checks, CQC regulated care providers must undergo independent audits and take safety precautions to maintain quality. Working with a CQC regulated care provider offers peace of mind that your loved one is always in good hands.
Key considerations from the CQC
TheCQCsets strict standards and monitors things like person-centred care, dignity and respect, equal treatment for all, safeguarding from abuse, and the right to have visitors, privacy, and remain involved with the local community if you wish.
When evaluating care providers, the CQC asks five key questions:
- Is the person safe and protected from abuse and avoidable harm?
- Are the staff treating the person with compassion, kindness and dignity?
- Are the staff responsive to the person’s needs?
- Are they well-led, and receiving bespoke care?
- Is the care, treatment and support effective in maintaining quality of life?
These questions are used in most cases to guide the care audit and determine what rating a care provider should receive.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
Are you in need of a little guidance right away?
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03300 583450
Home Instead have been looking after my father for a few years now, without them we would not be able to manage having him living in his own home. They are always bright and cheerful and Dad enjoys seeing them.Bridget, Clients Family
I am very happy with the support, care and kindness I receive from all the staff of Home Instead.B.M, Client
Knowing that mum has caring and genuine people to help take care of her gives me peace of mind and mum looks forward to seeing the Care Professionals. Thank you for making such a big difference to both of our lives.Rebecca, Client's Family
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How is Home Instead regulated by the CQC?
Like all care providers in England, our services are regularly inspected and monitored by the CQC. 4 ratings are given by the CQC (Inadequate, Requires Improvement, Good or Outstanding), and we are proud to say that over a third of our offices have been rated “Outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with 98% of our offices rated “Good” or “Outstanding”.
Shaped by advice from the CQC, we are proud to follow these regulations while also implementing our own high standards and policies to ensure every single one of our clients receives person-centred, bespoke care that works for their needs and circumstances.
Why Home Instead?
From personal care to housekeeping to specialist care, the friendly, compassionate Care Professionals who deliver care to our clients are expertly trained, and our service is CQC regulated to ensure high quality care, always.
Whatever questions you may have about our services, our carer selection and training, and our commitment to quality home care, the helpful team at HQ can answer and discuss how we can support you or your loved one.
FAQs
What does it mean for a home care service to be CQC regulated?
A CQC regulated home care service is monitored by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England. The CQC ensures that the service meets strict standards for quality, safety, and effectiveness, providing peace of mind that the care delivered is reliable and of high standard.
Why is choosing a CQC regulated service important?
By choosing a CQC regulated service, you can trust that the care provided is monitored and held to national standards. The service is regularly inspected on factors such as the safety of services, the skill and training of staff, and how well they respond to individual needs. This ensures your loved one receives high-quality and professional care.
How can I check a home care service’s CQC rating?
You can find any CQC regulated home care service’s inspection reports and ratings on the CQC’s official website. The rating ranges from ‘Outstanding’ to ‘Requires Improvement,’ giving you a clear view of the service’s performance. Many services, like us, also display their ratings on their websites or provide them upon request.
What does the CQC focus on during inspections?
The CQC focuses on five key questions during inspections:
- Is the service safe?
- Is the service effective?
- Is it caring?
- Is it responsive to people’s needs?
- Is it well-led?
These ensure that every aspect of care, from safety and professionalism to compassion, is thoroughly reviewed.
How does CQC regulation ensure quality care for loved ones?
CQC regulation ensures quality care by holding services accountable to high standards. Regular inspections and feedback mechanisms mean issues can be addressed promptly. Regulated services also provide trained carers, follow proper protocols, and operate transparently, giving families confidence in the care their loved ones receive.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.