Getting inspection-ready in 2025: everything you need to know

In a recent joint webinar with Care England, Citation’s Care Business Manager Mick Feather shared critical insights into what care providers need to know to prepare for CQC inspections in 2025. With over 50 inspection reports from 2023-24 reviewed and analysed, the session offered practical, actionable advice – rooted in the latest data – on how to improve ratings and stay compliant under the new Single Assessment Framework.

If you missed out, don’t worry – Citation have summarised the most important takeaways in this blog to keep you one step ahead. Let’s get started.

Quality assurance is still under the spotlight

While the CQC framework has changed a lot, the biggest compliance challenges haven’t. Over 80% of the care providers analysed had a Regulation 17 breach related to quality assurance. Common threads include a lack of robust oversight, poor audit quality and limited evidence of how improvements are being driven. The CQC expects providers not just to monitor service quality, but to clearly show how feedback, incidents and risks are reviewed and acted on.

Risk assessments can’t be generic

The second most common issue? Risk assessments. From outdated, overly generic forms to missing personalisation and a failure to reflect an individual’s needs, too many providers are falling short under Regulation 12. They’re also being pulled up for staff uncertainty about individual risk protocols and lack of clarity around how risks are reduced. Assessments need to be specific, regularly reviewed and demonstrably embedded in daily care delivery. Staff shouldn’t just understand individual risks, but should also be able to explain how they’re managed.

Safe staffing and recruitment are a make or break

Safe staffing is about more than just having enough people on shift – it’s about the right skill mix, adequate training and consistent supervision. Inspectors are still flagging gaps in safe staffing (Regulation 18) and recruitment (Regulation 19, including incomplete employment histories, insufficient references or missing DBS checks. With safe and effective staffing a focal point of every inspection, care providers can’t afford to be caught off guard.

Medication management is still a top five concern

The detail matters when it comes to medication. Issues with PRN protocols, patch rotation and storage conditions are still coming up in reports. Care providers need to make sure that medication procedures are clear, accurate and consistently followed by all staff. Even small oversights can lead to big compliance breaches.

Culture and leadership matter more than ever

The CQC is putting more emphasis on the “Well-Led” and “Safe” domains – especially how open, honest and supportive a service’s culture is. Staff need to feel confident to raise concerns without being worried about reprisal, so leaders like to need to demonstrate a visible commitment to listening, learning and continuous improvement.

So, what now?

The takeaway? Don’t wait for an inspection to reveal the gaps. Preparing proactively is essential, and that’s where Citation comes in. Download our handy guide to learn how you can navigate the complexities of the CQC framework.

Plus, with tools like CQC Pro, our online platform aligned with the new inspection framework, and our bespoke mock inspections, care providers like you can actively benchmark themselves, identify gaps and implement improvements well before an inspector walks through the door. We offer sector-specific care policies and procedures – regularly updated to reflect the latest regulations.

To view the full webinar: click here

Let’s get you inspection ready

Need support navigating regulatory compliance? Our care sector specialists are here to help. From tailored policies to mock inspections and 24/7 advice, Citation provides the expertise and reassurance you need to protect your people and your ratings. Give us a call on 0345 844 1111 or click here to learn more – and don’t forget to let us know that you’re a Care England member when enquiring to access preferential rates.