With an announcement from CQC stating that they are looking to undertake more inspections and contact providers in the coming months, everyone wants to know what the regulator will be looking out for under the current circumstances.

After doing some research on the matter, we wanted to share with you some of the key areas of interest for CQC.

One key area of attention will be on infection prevention and control (IPC) steps that are being taken in services. CQC will be particularly interested in the answers to the following:

1. Are all visitors prevented from catching and spreading infection?
2. Are shielding and social distancing complied with?
3. Are people admitted into the service safely?
4. Does the service use PPE effectively to safeguard staff and people using services?
5. Is there adequate access to and take-up of testing for staff and people using services?
6. Does the layout of premises, use of space and hygiene practice promote safety?
7. Do staff training, practices and deployment show the service can prevent and/or manage outbreaks?
8. Is the IPC policy up-to-date and implemented effectively to prevent and control infection?

Some of the other considerations CQC are likely to explore;

• Does the provider have a good understanding of where to seek advice?
• Are appropriate measures in place for those who are considered most clinically vulnerable?
• Are appropriate measures in place for those at increased risk due to protected characteristics?
• Are policies relating directly to visiting arrangements up to date?
• How well is the provider balancing risks to safety and the quality of life?

It is a good idea to start to benchmark your service against these particular considerations in readiness. We really hope this is something you find useful and is something you can share with your colleagues.

As a specialist, family-run recruitment business, we support organisations to target issues such as continuity of staffing, reducing spend where you have a high volume of agency usage and supporting those who have specific talent requirements or are in hard to fill locations. We can help with any immediate staffing requirements or longer-term recruitment projects to ultimately save you time and money on agency spend. Click here to see what our clients say about how we have supported them throughout the pandemic.

If you would like us to set up a video call to discuss how we can collaborate, please let us know.