How to Prepare for Your CQC Fit Person Interview: Tips for New Providers
What Is a CQC Fit Person Interview?
When you apply for CQC registration as a new provider, you'll be asked to attend a Fit Person Interview — a key part of the process that assesses whether you’re suitable to lead a safe, well-governed service.
This is typically carried out by a CQC inspector and focuses on your knowledge, leadership approach, and understanding of the regulations you’ll be responsible for.
What Will They Ask?
There’s no fixed script, but you should be prepared to talk about:
- Your understanding of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and CQC's fundamental standards
- How you plan to ensure safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led care
- Your approach to safeguarding, recruitment, quality assurance, risk management, and complaints
- How you’ll meet the requirements for a Registered Manager and staffing
- What systems and policies you’ll have in place from day one
How to Prepare
Here’s how to go in with confidence:
- Know your Statement of Purpose: Be ready to explain your service model, values, and client group
- Read your policies: Don’t just have them — understand them. CQC will expect you to lead on governance
- Use mock interviews: Practise answering questions with a consultant or colleague to build confidence
- Understand the regulations: Know the key requirements of the CQC Regulations
- Have evidence ready: Be prepared to talk through examples, templates, or plans showing readiness
Common Pitfalls
Providers often struggle when they:
- Rely solely on generic documents without adapting them
- Haven’t appointed a Registered Manager (or misunderstand the role)
- Can’t explain how they’ll ensure safety, compliance, and leadership
This interview isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about proving you're ready to take responsibility for a regulated service and understand what that entails.
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Updated for Procurement Act 2023 • CQC-aligned • BASE-aligned (where relevant)