At the start of 2025, around 500 assessment reports were pending. This figure has now dropped to just four, demonstrating a dramatic improvement in processing and inspection efficiency. By November 2025, the CQC completed 4,308 assessments, exceeding targets and marking a 50% increase compared with the same period in 2024.
Structural and Leadership Changes
The regulator has reorganised into four operational inspectorates led by sector experts:
- Professor Bola Owolabi CBE – Primary Care and Community Services
- Dr Toli Onon – Hospitals
- Chris Badger – Adult Social Care and Integrated Care
- Dr Arun Chopra – Mental Health (Interim Chief Executive)
Professor Sir Mike Richards has been appointed Chair, with new Non-Executive Directors and executive appointments strengthening leadership.
Registration and Process Improvements
The CQC has expanded registration inspector roles, piloted faster homecare registration, simplified online guidance, and is testing improved registration forms across other sectors.
Consultation on Regulatory Framework
The “Better regulation, better care” consultation attracted over 1,600 responses from providers, stakeholders, and the public. Feedback will inform revisions to inspection methods, assessment frameworks, and rating systems, addressing concerns highlighted in external reviews.
Next Steps (2026–2028)
The CQC plans to redesign its regulatory framework, test new methodologies and technology, and co-develop digital systems, including improvements to the provider portal and registration processes. The organisation also aims to maintain a consistent approach in its relationships with providers while embedding sector expertise at the heart of regulation.
Chris Badger, Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, said: “The new structure better reflects the needs of both the public and providers, putting sector expertise at the centre of regulation.”
