CQC ASSESSING SAFEGUARDING RESPONSIBILITIES

The open meeting also saw Paul Chapman from CQC outline the CQC framework for assessing Safeguarding.

Key messages were:

• Safeguarding is a key priority for CQC.
• They distinguish between 'Alerts' and 'Concerns'.
• They work closely with the local teams, providers and other professionals

There is a pdf on the CQC website outlining CQC roles and responsibilities regarding Safeguarding.

The latest strategy is also on the website. This is out for consultation. Please give feedback.

What is the difference between an Alerts  and a Concern?

Alerts: CQC are the first agency to be notified and / or the issue may need immediate action: they must notify the relevant SG authority within 1 day and start the enquiry process within 5 days

Concerns: CQC are not the first agency to be notified and there may be no need for action: notification and start enquiry process within 5 days.

Assessing 'Safe':

When assessing, CQC will take into account

• previous alerts and concerns,
• they will pay particular attention to KLoEs S1, S2 and E2,
• they will examine staff understanding of DoLS.
• they will examine the provider's status on getting authorisation for DoLS.