Care Show review
it’s like there’s a phantom in the corner watching you. You almost pretend that they don’t exist. And actually, if that was a resident’s family member, or a prospective resident, or someone looking to join your service, you’d say: ‘Hey, we’ve got this activity – come and have a look at it’. Or – where appropriate – you would lead [the inspector] not away from things, but to things. You can lead the inspection. “So seize the opportunity with the
inspection day. It is your service – lead them, show them around, show them what needs to be seen.” Sue: “At the end of day, it is about impact
excellent care. That’s one of the reasons why we don’t always have announced inspections – because that system [of announced inspections] isn’t fair for the people receiving care, it isn’t fair for the families, it isn’t fair for staff. So thinking about our quality for the right reasons, not for that ‘performance day’, is absolutely essential.” After all, one would hope that CQC
inspectors take a fair and realistic approach. “One of the best bits of advice an
inspector once said to me is: ‘we don’t mind things not being perfect. We struggle with surprises. When we get there and we find something that no one seems to know, that’s when we start to have some question marks’. “So it’s not about perfection,” Louie
continued. “Obviously, we’re aiming to provide as great care as possible, but it’s making sure that we are on top of the issues, because it’s the surprises that raise concerns about culture; that raise concerns about quality. “This is your opportunity to really
demonstrate great practice and showcase what you do,” agreed Sue. “But you’ve got to be able to evidence, and you’ve got to know how you’re going to talk about that ... You’ve got to be able to talk about not just the things you’re addressing, but also the good stuff. There’s always a balance there, but you’ve got to make sure you get that in front of them. Pick the five key pieces of evidence you want to speak to the inspector about, because they won’t look at everything. They don’t have time to look at everything, but you do have a chance to send them information afterwards, and that’s your opportunity to showcase.” Louie: “What I’ve been saying to staff
is: try to lead the inspection. Sometimes – and I don’t mean this as criticism –
November 2025
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com 17
and outcomes and the difference we make to people. So that’s what you need to showcase, and that is what the inspectors are looking for.”
As ever, the two days at Care Show
Birmingham flew by. Still, before we know it, Care Show London 2026 – to be held on 29/30 April at Excel London – will be upon us. We look forward to seeing you there.n
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