Do You Need a Registered Manager to Apply for CQC Registration?
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Do You Need a Registered Manager to Apply for CQC Registration?
One of the first things new providers ask is: “Do I need a Registered Manager before I apply to the CQC?”
The short answer is yes — in most cases, the Care Quality Commission requires you to name a Registered Manager on your application if you intend to carry out regulated activities.
But there are some nuances depending on your service model, legal structure, and how your care will be delivered.
📌 What Is a Registered Manager?
A Registered Manager is the individual legally responsible for the day-to-day running of a regulated service. This person must:
- ✔️ Have the qualifications, skills, and experience to manage the service
- ✔️ Pass CQC’s ‘fit person’ interview and checks
- ✔️ Submit their own application to register (alongside the provider)
CQC’s regulations make it clear that every location carrying out regulated activities must have a Registered Manager, unless the provider is an individual (i.e. a sole trader who manages the service directly).
👥 Who Can Be the Registered Manager?
You can either:
- Be the provider and the Registered Manager – if you’re a sole trader, or you’ll be managing the service yourself
- Appoint someone else – such as a Service Manager, Team Leader, or operational lead with suitable experience
If you're running a limited company, charity, or CIC, you must appoint someone — even if it’s you as the director.
Make sure the person you name meets the following:
- 🎓 Holds or is working towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or equivalent)
- 🧠 Understands CQC’s Fundamental Standards and Single Assessment Framework
- 🔍 Can demonstrate experience in supervision, compliance, and service delivery
⚠️ Can I Register Without a Manager in Place?
It’s very rare to be approved without naming a Registered Manager. CQC wants to see that the leadership structure is ready and competent at the point of application.
If you plan to recruit a manager later, your application may be delayed or rejected. Instead, you should:
- ✔️ Recruit your manager before applying
- ✔️ Name yourself if you’ll manage the service
- ✔️ Submit the manager’s registration application at the same time as the provider’s
📋 What Documentation Do You Need?
Your Registered Manager should have a full application pack ready, including:
- 📄 CQC Application Form (Part 2)
- 📑 Statement of Purpose
- 📚 Training and qualifications evidence
- 🧾 DBS check and references
We offer downloadable templates to support both provider and manager applications:
➡️ View CQC Registration Document Templates
✅ Get It Right from Day One
Your Registered Manager isn’t just a regulatory requirement — they’re a key part of your service’s success. Whether it’s you or someone you appoint, the role should be filled by someone with passion, experience, and the leadership skills to set the tone for safe, person-centred care.
Taking the time to choose the right person — and prepare the right paperwork — will give your CQC registration the best possible start.
Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing and strategy for social care providers
Visit impact-guru.co.uk to browse downloadable strategies, method statements, or get in touch about tender support.