Multi-Agency Safeguarding and Risk Management: What CQC Expects Providers to Evidence
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Most safeguarding and high-risk situations involve multiple agencies. CQC places strong emphasis on how providers work with local authorities, commissioners, health partners and safeguarding boards to manage risk and protect people.
This article explains how inspectors assess multi-agency safeguarding arrangements under risk and safeguarding and working with commissioners.
Clarity of Roles and Responsibilities
CQC looks for clear understanding of roles across agencies. Providers must be able to demonstrate what they are responsible for and where responsibility sits with commissioners or statutory partners.
Unclear boundaries or assumptions that “someone else is dealing with it” are common inspection risks.
Information Sharing and Timeliness
Inspectors assess whether information is shared promptly and appropriately. This includes safeguarding alerts, risk updates and changes in presentation.
Providers should be able to evidence secure information sharing and decision-making that prioritises safety while respecting confidentiality.
Participation in Safeguarding Processes
CQC expects providers to actively participate in safeguarding enquiries, strategy meetings and reviews.
This includes preparing clear reports, attending meetings and implementing agreed actions rather than adopting a passive role.
Escalation and Professional Challenge
Providers are expected to escalate concerns where risk remains unmanaged. CQC views appropriate professional challenge as a strength, not a conflict.
Inspectors often explore how providers respond when they disagree with decisions made by other agencies.
Recording Multi-Agency Decisions
Clear records of multi-agency discussions, decisions and agreed actions are essential. Inspectors frequently review whether these are reflected in care plans and risk assessments.
Poor recording undermines assurance, even where good discussions have taken place.
Demonstrating Collective Impact
CQC looks for evidence that multi-agency working leads to improved safety and outcomes.
Providers that can articulate how partnership working reduces risk and improves quality of life demonstrate strong system leadership.
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