The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released a crucial update on the ongoing review of its Single Assessment Framework – marking a clear commitment to improving how care services are assessed and rated.

Over the last two months, CQC has engaged with staff, providers, and stakeholders to gather feedback and shape the future of its assessment process. This latest update highlights four key outcomes from the review so far:

1. Revised and Refined List of Quality Statements

CQC has reviewed and simplified its quality statements to reduce duplication and improve clarity. The goal is to make them easier to understand and more relevant to providers and service users alike.

2. Frameworks That Apply to Different Sectors

While previously branded as a ‘Single’ Assessment Framework, the new direction sees frameworks adapted for specific sectors. This recognises the different needs and contexts across health and social care.

3. A New Proposed Approach to Making and Maintaining Judgements

CQC is rethinking how it delivers and maintains ratings, with a focus on ensuring frequency and relevance. A proposed new approach will be shared to clarify how judgements are made going forward.

4. A Comprehensive List of Ratings Characteristics for Each Framework

There will now be a clear and consistent description of what each rating (Inadequate/Requires Improvement/Good/Outstanding) looks like across each Key Question and Quality Statement for each sector and service type. Again, the phrase “each framework” signals a move away from a one-size-fits-all model.

What This Means for Providers

This update is a significant step in the CQC Single Assessment Framework review. It signals real, structural change—moving away from a rigid single framework to something more dynamic and responsive. For care providers, these changes could mean:

• Greater clarity on what’s being assessed
• More relevant frameworks for your type of service
• A more transparent and consistent ratings process

CQC has committed to further consultation before these changes are implemented. But this announcement confirms that change is not just coming – it’s already in motion.

Want to Stay Updated?

We’ll continue to follow the CQC Single Assessment Framework review closely and provide practical insights to help services stay ahead. For now, we recommend all providers familiarise themselves with this update and start considering how the changes may affect their approach to quality and compliance.

If you’d like to understand how your service can prepare, our team is here to help. Contact us or book a call with Louie.