Starting a health or social care service in the UK is a rewarding but highly regulated journey. Whether you’re registering with CQC or preparing to support vulnerable individuals, your policies and procedures are a vital part of demonstrating that your service is safe, effective, and compliant.
Here are the top 5 essential policies every new provider must have in place from day one:
1. Safeguarding Policy
This policy outlines how you will protect adults and children at risk from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. It should cover:
- Types of abuse and how to recognise them
- Reporting procedures (internally and to the local authority)
- DBS checks and staff training requirements
- Designated safeguarding lead(s)
💡 CQC expects evidence that all staff understand safeguarding responsibilities and act on concerns without delay.
2. Medication Policy
If your service involves administering or assisting with medication, this policy is non-negotiable. It must detail:
- Safe storage and handling of medicines
- Record-keeping (e.g. MAR charts)
- Consent and capacity
- How errors are reported and reviewed
💡 Medication errors are one of the top causes of enforcement actions during inspections.
3. Complaints and Feedback Policy
Your complaints policy must be clearly written, accessible to all service users, and followed consistently. It should include:
- How to make a complaint (verbally or in writing)
- Response timelines
- Recording and analysing complaints
- Learning and improving from feedback
💡 CQC expects providers to treat complaints as a valuable source of insight, not a burden.
4. Incident Reporting and Whistleblowing Policy
These two are often combined. You must show that your service has clear procedures for:
- Reporting accidents, near misses, or safety concerns
- Supporting staff who raise concerns (whistleblowers)
- Reviewing incidents and preventing recurrence
💡 Being “well-led” means creating an open culture where safety concerns are welcomed and addressed.
5. Staff Conduct and Training Policy
This sets out your expectations for professional conduct, training, and development. It should cover:
- Induction and mandatory training
- Supervision and appraisal processes
- Code of conduct and disciplinary actions
- Promoting equality, dignity, and respect
💡 Well-supported staff deliver better care—and your policies should reflect that.
✅ Ready to Get Compliant?
If you need support in drafting, reviewing, or updating your policies, HSCPN works closely with a trusted policy and documentation provider who specialises in tailored health and social care compliance.
📎 Click here to learn more and contact our recommended policy supplier: https://hscpn.org/suppliers-health-and-social-care/
Let HSCPN support you in setting strong foundations for quality care.
