We have published a report providing a national analysis of the adult social care market.

An assessment of the market since 2004, the report is based on our responsibilities under the Care Standards Act (CSA) 2000, which ceased on 30 September. The overview therefore gives a final definitive report on evidence gathered under this legislation.

The analysis examines capacity, quality and commissioning of services. It has been developed using technical data and discussions with leaders within the sector.

Download the documents

• Overview of the quality of adult social care
• Adult social care market and quality of services
• Quality of adult social care purchased by councils

Summary of our findings

The data shows that:

• This year, 83 percent of care homes, home care services, nursing agencies and shared lives schemes were rated good or excellent compared to 69 percent in 2008.
• There is stability in provision in the adult social care market but further growth will be needed to meet future needs
• People are increasingly being supported to live independently and in their homes.
• Year-on-year, councils are commissioning better care homes and home care services.

The report concludes that adult social care services have improved significantly since 2008, but further growth in the market is required to meet future needs.

• Read the press release to find out more

A new system of registration

All adult social care providers are now required to register with us under the Health and Social Care Act 2008.

Under the new legislation, we will monitor providers of adult social care against our essential standards of quality and safety. These standards set clear expectations for services, and focus on outcomes that are centred on people. We are also working with the adult social care sector to develop an information scheme, including an award of ‘excellence’.

http://www.cqc.org.uk/guidanceforprofessionals/councils/annualassessment...