The CQC are consulting on a substantially revised assessment framework that will be finalised and published in summer 2026, with implementation expected to start later in 2026.
This will replace the generic 34 Quality Statements under the Single Assessment Framework.
The core 5 key questions – Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led – remain the backbone, but the structure underneath them is being redesigned and made more sector‑specific.
The changes will feel closer to the KLOE model (Key Lines of Enquiry) but with updated language and a sharper focus on outcomes.
I Statements – the CQC want to ensure that people’s lived experience remains central to their assessments and set out what good care feels like from the perspective of those using services.
The CQC have brought out their table showing what Outstanding / Good / Requires Improvement / Inadequate looks like against each of the Key Lines of Enquiry.
You can download the Draft Assessment Frameworks here – https://www.cqc.org.uk/about-us/how-we-involve-you/consultations/give-your-views-draft-sector-specific-assessment-frameworks
CQC Webinars
Come along to our CQC webinars to learn more about the new changes with the Assessment Framework.