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The Care Quality Commission’s new chief executive, Kate Terroni, has publicly acknowledged shortcomings in the rollout of its revised inspection regime.

Admitting to past errors and a loss of trust among providers, Ms Terroni apologised for the difficulties caused by the shift to a more flexible “single assessment framework”. She emphasised that technical issues and insufficient provider engagement hindered effective implementation.

Ms Terroni outlined urgent steps to improve, including increasing assessments and inspections, enhancing provider support, and expediting registration processes. This follows criticism and a review of effectiveness amidst reduced NHS inspections and contentious ratings during the pandemic.

The CQC, funded largely through NHS trust fees, faces calls for reform from NHS leaders like Sir Julian Hartley, who welcomed Ms Terroni’s candid approach and stressed the need for improved inspector training and local relationships.

Secrets out

The CEO of Essex Partnership University Foundation Trust, Paul Scott, claimed there had been a shift from a defensive and secretive culture at the trust to one of openness with patients and families.

Speaking exclusively to HSJ, Mr Scott highlighted past defensiveness and secrecy in mental health treatment, stressing recent strides towards inclusivity. He noted previous exclusion of families and patients from decision-making and care planning, areas he claims the trust has improved on significantly.

His comments come as an inquiry chaired by Baroness Kate Lampard examines over 2,000 deaths spanning 23 years, with upcoming public hearings focusing on recent incidents amid ongoing concerns.

Mr Scott cited enhanced patient feedback, showing a rise in reported safety from 94 per cent to over 98 per cent, as evidence of growing confidence in their services.

He highlighted initiatives like involving patients in workforce and crisis care redesigns, with an increase in staff with lived experience now advising the trust. Despite accolades from bereaved families, concerns persist over substantive improvements and accountability for clinical practices.

Mr Scott defended the trust’s progress on patient safety, citing infrastructure investments and reduced vacancy rates, while acknowledging ongoing challenges.

The Lampard inquiry declined to comment, but a trust spokeswoman affirmed ongoing efforts to enhance safety through staffing and technology, framing these efforts as part of a broader Time to Care initiative aimed at workforce diversification and sustainability.

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