How to Register with the CQC as a New Provider: A Step-by-Step Guide
Registering with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is a legal requirement for health and social care providers in England delivering regulated activities. Whether you’re starting a domiciliary care agency, supported living service, or residential care home, the CQC registration process can feel daunting — but it doesn’t have to be. This guide breaks down the key steps to help you prepare with confidence.
1️⃣ Understand What You Need to Register For
The CQC regulates specific regulated activities, not service types. Start by identifying which activities you intend to carry out (e.g., personal care, treatment of disease, accommodation for persons requiring nursing or personal care). This defines what your registration application must cover.
2️⃣ Appoint Your Registered Manager and Nominated Individual
You’ll need to confirm your Registered Manager (the person overseeing day-to-day regulated activity) and your Nominated Individual (a senior person responsible for liaising with the CQC on behalf of the organisation). Both must demonstrate appropriate skills, experience, and good character.
3️⃣ Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Your application must include detailed governance documents. These typically include:
- Statement of Purpose explaining your service and regulated activities
- Business Continuity Plan and Quality Assurance Framework
- Policies and Procedures aligned to CQC’s Key Questions
- Staffing Structure and Organisational Chart
- Training Matrix showing staff competencies
Strong documentation demonstrates your readiness to provide safe, effective, and well-led care.
4️⃣ Complete Your Application via the Provider Portal
Applications are submitted through the CQC Provider Portal. This includes detailed questions about your service, leadership, governance, premises, and finances. You’ll also need to pay an initial application fee. Double-check every section for accuracy to avoid delays.
5️⃣ Prepare for the CQC Interview and Site Visit
Once your application is reviewed, the CQC may request an interview with your Nominated Individual and Registered Manager. They’ll assess your knowledge of the Regulations, Fundamental Standards, and Key Questions framework. Be prepared to evidence your policies and service model in practice.
For premises-based services, a site visit may also be required to inspect your readiness, safety measures, and suitability of the environment.
Final Thought: Preparation is Everything
Many applications are delayed due to missing documents or weak governance evidence. Invest time upfront in getting your documents and policies right — it’s the foundation of your successful registration.
💼 Rapid Support Products (fast turnaround options)
- ⚡ 48-Hour Tender Triage
- 🆘 Bid Rescue Session – 60 minutes
- ✍️ Score Booster – Tender Answer Rewrite
- 🧩 Tender Answer Blueprint
- 📝 Tender Proofreading & Light Editing
- 🔍 Pre-Tender Readiness Audit
- 📁 Tender Document Review
🚀 Need a Bid Writing Quote?
If you’re exploring support for an upcoming tender or framework, request a quick, no-obligation quote. I’ll review your documents and respond with:
- A clear scope of work
- Estimated days required
- A fixed fee quote
- Any risks, considerations or quick wins
🔁 Prefer Flexible Monthly Support?
If you regularly handle tenders, frameworks or call-offs, a Monthly Bid Support Retainer may be a better fit.
- Guaranteed hours each month (1, 2, 4 or 8 days)
- Discounted day rates vs ad-hoc consultancy
- Use time flexibly across bids, triage, library updates, renewals
- One-month rollover (fair-use rules applied)
- Cancel anytime before next billing date
🚀 Ready to Win Your Next Bid?
Chat on WhatsApp or email Mike.Harrison@impact-guru.co.uk
Updated for Procurement Act 2023 • CQC-aligned • BASE-aligned (where relevant)