April 2026 Newsletter
Good Morning
This month, we’re focusing on an important development from the CQC. From March 2026, a new programme is being introduced to review lower-risk GP practices that haven’t been inspected for several years. Targeting services previously rated Good or Outstanding, the aim is to ensure they continue to deliver safe, effective and well-led care.
Eligible practices can expect a short-notice, on-site review focused on 10 non-clinical quality statements – designed to strengthen assurance and increase engagement across primary care. You’ll find more detailed information and practical guidance below in this newsletter.
As always at DKJ, if you have any questions or want to chat about anything, please get in touch with us any time!
CQC Inspections for Good or Outstanding GP Practices between 2017-2022
From March 2026, the CQC will begin a new programme reviewing lower‑risk GP practices that haven’t been inspected for several years. The aim is to confirm that previously high‑performing services are still delivering safe, effective, well‑led care.
Who’s Included?
NHS GP practices that:
- are rated Good or Outstanding
- last had an inspection report published 2017–2022
- are considered lower risk
- have no open regulatory activity
What to Expect
- Focus on 10 non‑clinical quality statements
- On‑site visit
- 5 working days’ notice
- GP Specialist Advisors attend only if needed
This programme increases CQC contact and strengthens assurance across primary care.
How DKJ Can Help
We support practices preparing for these assessments, including:
- Evidence review against the 10 non‑clinical statements
- Leadership/team preparation ahead of site visits
- Independent gap analysis
- Strengthening governance and compliance
Get in touch: cqc@dkjsupportservices.co.uk
April's Masterclass Spotlight
April's Masterclass Spotlight An Introduction to CQC
Thursday 23 April 09:00 – 10:00 |
This Masterclass is designed to help healthcare clinics – including GP practices, PCNs, and similar services – understand the role of the CQC and get ready for inspection. The session provides a clear introduction to the CQC, its key functions, and essential information to help you stay compliant.
Introduction to CQC
- Overview of the four core functions of the CQC
- What you need to know about CQC registration and how to check your compliance
- Understanding CQC’s enforcement powers and publication responsibilities
- Introduction to important Quality Statements and their relevance to your service
In-depth Inspection and Quality Statements
- Detailed look at the CQC Single Assessment Framework
- Deep dive into specific Quality Statements focusing on staff, teams, partnerships, and community engagement
- Practical advice to help you develop an action plan that improves compliance and prepares you for inspection
What you’ll learn:
- How teams share information and work together to plan, deliver, and coordinate care, including transitions, referrals, and discharges
- How to build strong partnerships with other organisations and communities to enhance services
- How to clearly demonstrate to the CQC that your service delivers seamless care through effective teamwork and collaboration
Is CQC a Legal Requirement?
Yes – CQC registration is a legal requirement for any provider delivering regulated health or adult social care services in England. This applies regardless of the size of your organisation or whether your services are NHS-funded, privately funded or a mix of both. If you carry out a regulated activity without being registered, you are operating unlawfully and could face enforcement action, including fines or prosecution.
However, registration is only the starting point. Providers are legally required to continue meeting the Fundamental Standards of care at all times. The CQC assesses this through its five key questions: whether services are safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
In practice, this means having strong governance, clear leadership and effective systems in place. Providers must be able to demonstrate compliance through up-to-date policies, accurate records, regular audits and a clear approach to managing risk and improving quality.
The CQC does not just assess services at inspection – it monitors them on an ongoing basis. Maintaining compliance therefore requires a proactive approach, with continuous oversight, learning and improvement embedded into everyday practice.
Common Pitfalls
Common compliance issues often stem from weak governance rather than intent. These include:
- Outdated or generic policies that don’t reflect current legislation or practice
- Gaps in recruitment checks, training records or staff competency evidence
- Audits that are completed but not followed up with action or review
- A reactive approach – only preparing when an inspection is expected
- Lack of clear leadership oversight or defined accountability
Addressing these early through structured governance and regular internal reviews can significantly reduce risk.
Conclusion
CQC registration is not just a one-off legal requirement, it is an ongoing obligation. Providers must be able to demonstrate that safe, effective and well-led care is embedded into daily practice at all times.
Strong leadership, clear systems and a culture of continuous improvement are key to maintaining compliance and protecting both your service and the people you care for.
DKJ Chats April 2026
Work With Us
Are you looking for project work and have worked in health and social care?
We are pleased to be looking for more Associates to work on national projects and provide interim support to primary care and social care organisations.
If you have experience working in primary or social care, we would love to hear from you and have a chat with you about how you can support us with our growing portfolio of work in these sectors.
If you are interested, please drop us your CV or a short personal statement to our Operations Manager at claire@dkjsupportservices.co.uk.
We look forward to hearing from you 😊
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