Registered Managers Invited to Take Part in National Research on CQC Inspections

The Daily Round is calling on Registered Managers across the UK to take part in new research exploring the reality of Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections.

The research aims to capture honest, frontline experiences of the inspection process — identifying what is working, where challenges exist, and how the system could better support care providers.

Giving a Voice to Frontline Leaders

Registered Managers play a critical role in maintaining quality and compliance, yet their experiences of inspections are often underrepresented in wider sector conversations.

This research has been designed to change that.

Participants will be invited to share insight into:

• Their most recent CQC inspection experience
• How prepared they felt going into the inspection
• The clarity and consistency of feedback received
• The impact of inspections on team morale and service delivery
• The time and administrative burden associated with compliance
• Whether inspections reflect the true quality of care being delivered

The goal is to build a clearer, evidence-based picture of how inspections are experienced in practice — not just on paper.

Exploring What Needs to Change

In addition to gathering feedback, the research will also explore opportunities for improvement across the inspection process.

Key areas of focus include:

• Consistency between inspectors and regions
• Communication before, during, and after inspections
• The balance between paperwork and real-life care delivery
• How ratings are determined and communicated
• The emotional and operational impact on Registered Managers

Findings will be used to highlight common themes, identify gaps, and support more informed conversations across the sector.

Shaping Future Support and Insight

The results of the research will be published by The Daily Round, contributing to ongoing discussions around regulation, quality, and workforce experience.

Insights gathered will also help shape:

• Future guidance and resources for Registered Managers
• Practical support tools to prepare for inspections
• Sector-wide conversations with policymakers and stakeholders

All responses can be submitted anonymously, ensuring participants feel comfortable sharing honest and open feedback.

The Daily Round Perspective

Speaking on the launch of the research, Jill Newey, Editor in Chief of The Daily Round, said:

“Registered Managers carry an enormous amount of responsibility, particularly when it comes to inspections.

We want to understand what that experience really looks like — not just from a compliance perspective, but from a human one.

This research is about listening, learning, and ensuring that the voices of those leading care services are heard.”

Get Involved

Registered Managers who wish to take part in the research are encouraged to come forward and share their experiences.

To participate, simply register your interest with The Daily Round and help shape the future of how CQC inspections are understood and experienced across the sector.