Decision details

A representative of the Care Quality Commission, the Independent regulator of health and adult social care in England, gave us a presentation on the purpose and role of that organisation in making sure that health and social care services in England provided people with safe, effective and compassionate, high quality care. 

The presentation covered the Commission’s role in monitoring, inspecting and regulating services to make sure they meet fundamental standards of quality and safety and it was reported that its findings, including performance ratings which help people to choose their care, were published.  Where poor care was identified, it uses its powers to take action against those responsible

It was reported that the service regulates care homes, hospitals, domiciliary care, doctors/GP’s dentists, clinics, community services and mental health services and there were eight inspectors working across the Darlington, Durham and Hartlepool local authority areas. 

Discussion ensued on the Inspection regime and how often inspections were undertaken; work with partners and the public to collate information about service providers and the position in relation to the inspection regime of domiciliary service providers.

RESOLVED – That the presentation be noted and the thanks of this Scrutiny Committee be extended to the CQC representative for attending the meeting.