Receiving a Notice of Proposal (NOP) from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) can be alarming. However, with the right approach, providers can often address CQC’s concerns effectively and, in many cases, avoid further enforcement action.

At HLTH Group, we support providers to navigate this challenging process with professionalism and care. Here’s what you need to know if you receive a NOP.

Understanding a Notice of Proposal

A NOP is a formal step within CQC’s enforcement powers. It signals that CQC intends to take action — which may include imposing conditions on your registration, suspending your service, or even cancelling your registration altogether.

Importantly, at the NOP stage, no action has yet been taken. Providers have the right to make representations to CQC before a final decision is made.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Act Quickly: The deadline to respond is usually 28 calendar days from the date of the NOP.
• Read the NOP Carefully: Understand exactly what concerns CQC has identified. Are they related to leadership, safeguarding, staffing, governance, or another area?
• Gather Evidence: If you have taken steps to address the concerns (e.g., implemented new training, changed leadership, improved systems), document everything comprehensively.
• Seek Expert Support: Responding effectively often requires an experienced and strategic approach. HLTH Group can help you prepare robust representations that address CQC’s specific concerns.

Crafting Your Representations

Representations should be clear, structured, and focused. It is not sufficient simply to dispute CQC’s findings; you must provide evidence of improvement or mitigation.

Key elements include:

• Acknowledging any identified shortfalls (where appropriate)
• Outlining actions taken to rectify concerns
• Providing evidence (policies, audits, staff training records, leadership changes)
• Demonstrating capacity and commitment for sustainable improvement

Tone matters. Representations should be professional, constructive, and show a strong commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care.

What Happens Next?

After receiving your representations, CQC will consider them carefully before making a final decision. They may decide to:

• Take no further action
• Issue a Warning Notice
• Proceed with the proposed action

The quality and strength of your response can make a significant difference to the outcome.

 

Facing a Notice of Proposal can feel daunting, but it is an opportunity to demonstrate accountability, improvement, and leadership. Providers who act promptly, transparently, and professionally are often able to achieve a more favourable outcome.

HLTH Group’s team of compliance experts, including former CQC inspectors and experienced Registered Managers, are ready to support you through the NOP process and safeguard your service’s future.