What is a CQC Inspection?
A CQC inspection is conducted by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care services in England. The CQC inspects and monitors services like hospitals, care homes, GP practices, and local authority adult social care to ensure they provide safe, effective, compassionate, and high-quality care.
During an inspection, the CQC assesses services based on five key questions:
- Is it safe? – Protecting people from harm and abuse.
- Is it effective? – Providing care that achieves good outcomes.
- Is it caring? – Treating people with kindness and respect.
- Is it responsive? – Meeting people’s needs and preferences.
- Is it well-led? – Having strong leadership and governance.
Services are rated as:
- Outstanding
- Good
- Requires Improvement
- Inadequate
Local Inspections
Both Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council (RCBC) have recently undergone inspections. The findings of the inspection with RCBC is yet to be published. In Middlesbrough Council’s case, the CQC rated it as “Requires Improvement,” indicating that while some aspects of care are adequate, there are areas needing significant enhancement to meet the required standards.
Summary of Middlesbrough Council's Inspection
Positive Experiences:
Most people were satisfied with Middlesbrough's adult social care. They received useful advice, coordinated support, and could often remain in their homes with equipment aiding independence. Transitions between services, especially for young people moving to adult care, were generally smooth. Safety was a highlight: 75.6% of service users and 85.3% of carers felt safe.
Areas of Concern:
Some people experienced long waits and poor communication, impacting their wellbeing. Unpaid carers faced challenges with unclear information and limited support, with only 44.8% satisfied with services, despite 72.5% feeling consulted. "Some carers said they had not been provided with information they could access or understand and felt their options had not been explained properly to them and their responsibilities had not been considered."
Strengths and Areas for Improvement:
Dedicated staff, visible leadership, and strong partnerships drive positive outcomes. Efforts focus on prevention, promoting independence, and improving data use. However, waiting lists, carer support, housing, and embedding diversity remain key areas to address. New leadership and governance offer potential for improvement.
Conclusion:
While services are generally strong, improvements in waiting times, communication, and support for carers are needed. Leadership changes and staff commitment position Middlesbrough to achieve meaningful progress.
