New CQC Single Assessment Framework

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is rolling out its Single Assessment Framework (SAF) across England in 2025, and it’s set to significantly change how social care providers are inspected and rated.

If you run or manage a care home, domiciliary care service, or supported living setting, understanding these changes is essential for staying compliant and safeguarding your rating.

In this article, we break down what the new framework involves, what’s changed, and most importantly, how you can prepare.

What Is the CQC Single Assessment Framework?

The Single Assessment Framework (SAF) is CQC’s new, more flexible and digital approach to inspection and regulation. It replaces the older inspection model and applies to all health and social care providers regulated by the CQC.

Rather than periodic full inspections, providers are now subject to ongoing assessments that draw on a broader mix of evidence.

The 6 New Categories of Evidence CQC Will Use

Under SAF, CQC inspectors now draw from six types of evidence when evaluating your service:

1. People’s experiences
2. Feedback from staff and leaders
3. Observations
4. Processes
5. Outcomes
6. Feedback from partners

Tip: You don’t need to wait for an inspection to provide this evidence, providers can now proactively upload documents and data to their CQC portal.

Focus on “Quality Statements”

The traditional Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOEs) are being replaced by 34 Quality Statements under five key questions (Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, Well-led). Each statement outlines what good care looks like.

What Social Care Providers Should Do to Prepare

Review the Quality Statements

Download the full list of CQC Quality Statements and map out how your service meets each one. Focus particularly on "Well-led" and "Safe"—they weigh heavily in assessments.

Start Building an Evidence Portfolio

Keep up-to-date:

• Policies and procedures
• Training logs
• Compliments and complaints
• Outcomes from audits
• Feedback from residents, relatives and staff

Encourage Regular Feedback

Use surveys, review cards, or informal interviews to gather feedback from:

• Service users
• Families
• Staff
• Visiting professionals (GPs, district nurses, etc.)

Use the New Provider Portal

Make sure you’re registered and are familiar with the CQC’s digital portal. You can use it to upload documents, view updates, and respond to information requests.

Train Managers and Senior Staff

Your leadership team must understand the new framework inside and out. CQC inspections may now be “virtual” or even data-led, so knowing how to digitally showcase compliance is critical.

What Happens If You’re Not Ready?

Because CQC can now update ratings at any time based on new evidence or concerns, the risk of a rating drop is higher if:

• Complaints go unaddressed
• Outcomes aren’t tracked
• Staff turnover is high
• Feedback isn’t proactively gathered

Providers should adopt a mindset of "always inspection ready."

Summary: Key Actions to Take

• Download and review the Quality Statements
• Register for and explore the CQC provider portal
• Start gathering evidence under each Quality Statement
• Engage with residents, staff, and families for feedback
• Train your team on the new framework

Need support with CQC compliance or inspection readiness?

At Quality Care Group, we partner with care providers to offer risk management advice, compliance resources, and expert support to help you maintain or improve your rating.

Contact us today on 01273 424904 for a free consultation or to speak with one of our care sector specialists.