Who Are the CQC?
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care services in England. Much like OFSTED in the education sector, the CQC exists to ensure that people receive safe, effective, compassionate and high‑quality care.
Although Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own regulatory frameworks, I Saw U First clinics operate to the same rigorous standards of safety, professionalism and client experience.
The CQC monitors, inspects and regulates services to ensure they meet fundamental standards of quality and safety. Their findings—including performance ratings—are published to help the public make informed choices about their care. More information is available at www.cqc.org.uk.
What Does the CQC do ?
The CQC’s role includes:
-
Ensuring care services meet expected standards every time someone receives care.
-
Registering services that demonstrate compliance with their regulations.
-
Monitoring, inspecting and regulating providers to ensure standards continue to be met.
-
Protecting the rights of vulnerable people, including those under the Mental Health Act.
-
Listening to the experiences of the public and working with local organisations to improve care.
-
Challenging providers, giving the closest scrutiny to those performing poorly.
-
Making fair, evidence‑based judgements about the quality of care.
-
Taking action when services fail to meet fundamental standards.
-
Conducting in‑depth investigations into care across systems when required.
-
Reporting openly on the quality of care, including clear performance ratings.
What Must I Saw U First Do for the CQC?
As a CQC‑regulated service, I Saw U First must demonstrate that your safety, wellbeing and experience are central to everything we do. This means you will always:
-
Be cared for by trained, compassionate staff.
-
Be scanned by fully qualified, registered medical Sonographers.
-
Be treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity.
-
Be welcomed into a safe, comfortable and well‑maintained environment.
-
Receive honest, clear and transparent communication at all times.
What does this mean for you ?
The CQC assesses all care services—including I Saw U First —against five key questions:
Are they safe?
You are protected from abuse and avoidable harm.
Are they effective?
Your care is based on the best available evidence and achieves positive outcomes.
Are they responsive?
Your individual needs are recognised and met, with services designed around you.
Are they caring?
Staff treat you with kindness, compassion, dignity and respect.
Are they well‑led?
Leadership and governance ensure high‑quality care, continuous learning and an open, fair culture.