If you intend to provide a regulated activity in England, you generally need to register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) before providing that activity. The registration process involves identifying the regulated activities that apply to your service, determining the appropriate provider and management arrangements, preparing the required documentation, completing the relevant application forms and submitting your application to CQC. CQC will assess whether you are suitable to provide the proposed regulated activities and whether you can meet the relevant legal and regulatory requirements. Depending on the type of application, CQC may request additional information or carry out further assessment activities.

CQC registration is based on the regulated activities you provide rather than simply the name of your business or service. Different regulated activities apply to different types of health and social care services. The correct registration requirements depend on what your organisation actually does, who receives the service and how the service is delivered. It is important to identify the correct regulated activities before submitting your application. Providing a regulated activity without the appropriate registration can be a serious regulatory matter.

There is no guaranteed standard timescale for CQC registration. The time required can vary depending on the type and complexity of the application, the information provided and whether CQC requires further information or assessment.CQC states that registration can take a few months. Submitting a complete and accurate application with the appropriate supporting documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays.You must not provide regulated activities that require registration until CQC has confirmed your registration.

The cost of CQC registration depends on the type of service, regulated activities, locations and other factors relevant to your application. CQC charges registered providers regulatory fees, which are separate from any professional or consultancy fees you may pay for assistance with your application.We can help you understand the likely CQC requirements and costs associated with your particular registration.

The documentation required depends on the type of registration and regulated activities you are applying for. Depending on your circumstances, this may include:

- Provider application forms
- Registered manager application forms, where applicable
- A Statement of Purpose
- Details of your regulated activities and service
- Information about your organisation and management arrangements
- Evidence relating to suitability and fitness
- Financial information, where applicable
- Policies and procedures
- Business and operational documentation
- DBS documentation, where required
- Additional supporting documents relevant to your application

CQC requirements vary between different types of registration, so the documentation should be tailored to your specific service rather than using a generic application pack.

Whether a DBS check is required, and the level of check needed, depends on your role, the regulated activity and the type of service you are applying to provide.Where CQC requires a DBS check, the appropriate level must be obtained and the relevant CQC requirements followed. The requirements can differ depending on whether the application involves a registered manager, provider, nominated individual or another relevant role. We can advise you on the appropriate DBS requirements for your particular application before you submit it.

Our CQC registration support is tailored to your individual application rather than being limited to one particular type of service. Depending on your requirements, support can include:

- Reviewing your proposed CQC registration
- Identifying the relevant regulated activities
- Preparing your CQC application
- Preparing or reviewing your Statement of Purpose
- Preparing supporting documentation
- Policies and procedures appropriate to your service
- Reviewing management and organisational arrangements
- Supporting evidence required for your application
- Guidance on DBS and suitability requirements
- Preparing for CQC interviews or other assessment activities, where applicable
- Guidance throughout the registration process

The exact support provided will depend on the type of registration and services you intend to provide. CQC remains responsible for assessing applications and making the final registration decision.

No. CQC makes its own independent decision on every registration application, and no consultancy can guarantee that an application will be approved. Our role is to help you understand the requirements, prepare your application and supporting documentation, identify potential issues and ensure your application is presented clearly and accurately. We aim to help you submit a complete and well-prepared application while reducing avoidable errors and delays. The final decision, however, rests with CQC.

Not every CQC registration requires the same type of premises or location. Whether you need a specific location, premises or registered location depends on the regulated activities you intend to provide and how your service will operate. CQC needs to be satisfied that your proposed arrangements are appropriate for the regulated activities you are applying to provide. A virtual office or PO Box does not automatically meet CQC's requirements for a location where one is required. The requirements should therefore be assessed based on your specific service and registration.

Not every CQC registration requires a registered manager. Where one is required, the proposed manager must meet CQC's suitability requirements for the relevant regulated activity. CQC considers factors including whether the person:

- Is of good character
- Has the necessary qualifications, competence, skills and experienceIs capable of performing the role effectively
- Meets the relevant legal and regulatory requirements
- Has provided the information and evidence required by CQC

There is no universal requirement for every registered manager to hold a particular qualification. The appropriate qualifications, experience and competence depend on the regulated activity and the service being managed.

If your application requires a registered manager, we can help you understand the requirements and assess whether your proposed manager is appropriately prepared before submitting the application.