Key Policies Every Social Care Provider Needs Before Registering with CQC
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Key Policies Every Social Care Provider Needs Before Registering with CQC
Applying to register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)? You’ll need more than just a Statement of Purpose and a business plan. One of the most common reasons for registration delays is missing or insufficient policies and procedures.
Commissioners and inspectors expect you to have a complete set of policies that demonstrate compliance, safety, and good governance — even before your service begins operating.
📋 Why Policies Matter at the Registration Stage
Policies show how your service intends to meet the Fundamental Standards of Care. They provide clarity on what staff should do in specific situations, and help the CQC assess whether your systems are fit for purpose.
If your policies are vague, outdated, or copied from other providers, it may raise red flags during the application process.
✅ Essential Policies for CQC Registration
Here’s a checklist of core policies every new provider should have in place:
- 🔒 Safeguarding Adults Policy
- 💊 Medication Policy
- 🧠 Mental Capacity and Consent Policy
- 👥 Staff Recruitment and Vetting Policy
- 📣 Complaints and Feedback Policy
- 📊 Quality Assurance and Governance Policy
- 💼 Health and Safety Policy
- 🧽 Infection Prevention and Control Policy
- 🌍 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy
Depending on your service model, you may also need additional policies for:
- 🏠 Supported Living Arrangements
- 🚗 Lone Working and Community Visits
- 💼 Use of Assistive Technology
- 📱 Digital Record Keeping and Data Security
🛠️ What Makes a Good Policy?
Strong policies are:
- ✔️ Tailored to your service type and client group
- ✔️ Written in clear, accessible language
- ✔️ Linked to relevant legislation and CQC regulations
- ✔️ Reviewed and updated regularly
Avoid generic templates that don’t reflect your actual practice. Inspectors want to see that you understand the policies — not just that you’ve downloaded them.
📥 Ready-to-Use CQC Policy Templates
We’ve created a full suite of CQC-aligned, fully editable policy templates — perfect for new providers preparing their registration application.
- 📝 Available in Word format
- 📚 Includes guidance notes and key prompts
- ⚖️ Aligned with the latest CQC regulations
🏁 Set the Right Foundation from Day One
Policies aren’t just paperwork — they’re the framework for how your service will run. Investing time in getting them right at registration stage helps you avoid delays, build trust with regulators, and set a culture of professionalism and accountability from day one.
With the right policies in place, you're not just meeting expectations — you're showing CQC that you're ready to lead a safe, well-governed, and person-centred service.
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.