Following external reviews and initial actions the CQC are now planning longer-term changes to their assessment framework, digital platforms, and how they use and store data. The final assessment framework(s) are likely to be published in summer 2026, with implementation starting at the end of the year.
"Our immediate focus is on actions until the end of 2026, with longer-term planning for delivering the changes up to the end of 2028.
During this initial period, we will:
- redesign our entire regulatory process
- test and pilot our assessment approach and new technology
- scope improvements to our online provider portal
- continue to strengthen our registration service.
Work is already well underway through our public consultation on our assessment framework Better regulation, better care. The activity includes:
- Targeted engagement with a wide range of stakeholders on assessment frameworks for each health and care sector, and what good care looks like in these services.
- From spring 2026, analysing and responding to feedback from our consultation and engagement to develop our new assessment frameworks and approach.
- Testing with colleagues and piloting with a selection of providers to make sure the methodology works for all sectors.
- In summer 2026, publishing the final assessment framework(s) and developing guidance to support providers before we start to implement them at the end of the year.
- Continuing to improve our registration service to help us deliver quicker, clearer decisions for providers and better safeguards for people who use services.
- Improving our digital capability, including upgrading our data platform, exploring further technology needs and improving the provider portal, while reflecting on lessons learned."
Source www.cqc.org.uk
