CQC Notifications Regulation 18
1. Serious Injury ????⚠️
- When: If a service user suffers a serious injury (e.g., fracture, head injury).
- Timescale: Without delay (ASAP).
2. Death of a Service User ⚰️????️
- When: Death occurs while the service is providing regulated activity.
- Timescale: Without delay (within 24 hours ideally).
3. Abuse or Allegation of Abuse ????????
- When: If there’s any actual or alleged abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, financial, neglect).
- Timescale: Without delay.
4. Police Involvement ????♂️????
- When: When the police are called due to an incident involving service users.
- Timescale: Without delay.
5. Application to Deprive Liberty (DoLS) ????️????
- When: When an application is made to the local authority to authorise a deprivation of liberty.
- Timescale: Without delay (once the application is made).
6. Authorisation Granted for DoLS ????️✅
- When: When DoLS authorisation is granted by the Local Authority.
- Timescale: Without delay.
7. Absence of Registered Manager for Over 28 Days ????️????
- When: If the Registered Manager will be absent for more than 28 days.
- Timescale: Before the absence starts or immediately if unexpected.
8. Return of Registered Manager After Absence ????????
- When: Upon return after being absent more than 28 days.
- Timescale: Without delay.
9. Events that Stop the Service Running Safely and Properly ????⚡
- When: Major events (e.g., flood, fire, major power failure) that impact service delivery.
- Timescale: Without delay.
10. Unauthorised Absence of a Service User (Missing Person) ????♂️❓
- When: If a service user goes missing from their place of care.
- Timescale: Without delay.
11. Infectious Disease Outbreak ????????
- When: If there’s an outbreak that poses a risk to others (e.g., COVID-19, Norovirus).
- Timescale: Without delay.
12. Changes to Statement of Purpose ????✏️
- When: Any significant change to the service’s aims, objectives, or services provided.
- Timescale: Without delay.
13. Changes to Registered Details ????????
- When: Changes like company name, address, service name, or legal entity details.
- Timescale: Immediately upon change.
???? General Rule:
Where CQC guidance says “without delay,” it is expected that you notify within 24 hours — sooner if possible!