The CQC has confirmed that its new assessment approach is currently in a structured pilot and testing phase, running from June to October 2026, with final evaluation due in November 2026.

The aim is to ensure the new approach is credible, consistent, and works effectively across all types of health and social care services before it is fully implemented.

Pilot programme

Pilot inspections will take place alongside existing inspections, not instead of them. Participation is voluntary, and providers who choose not to take part will not face any regulatory impact.

The pilot includes a wide and diverse sample of providers across different:

• Service types
• Sizes and ownership models
• Geographic areas
• Risk levels

Each participating provider will receive a pilot report in addition to their standard inspection report, but pilot judgements will have no regulatory or rating impact.

What the CQC is testing

The pilot will help the CQC understand how the new approach works in real settings, including whether providers can clearly understand how judgements and ratings are reached.

Feedback will be gathered from providers taking part, inspection teams, and wider consultation and engagement activity.

This will be used to refine the approach before wider

Why this matters

rollout, along with development of supporting digital tools and systems.

The CQC’s goal is to improve consistency, transparency, and understanding of its assessment process, while ensuring the new model is workable across all service types.

Further opportunities for feedback will continue throughout the development process.

You are still able to share your feedback on the draft framework with the CQC until 12 June.