The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has been rolling out its new Single Assessment Framework, replacing the previous Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOEs) with a more evidence-driven approach. Here's what it means for your documentation.
What's Changed?
The new framework organises assessments around quality statements rather than the old five key questions. While Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-Led remain as themes, the way evidence is gathered and scored has fundamentally shifted.
Evidence Categories
CQC now collects evidence in six categories:
- People's experience — direct feedback from service users
- Feedback from staff and leaders
- Observation — what inspectors see during visits
- Processes — policies, procedures, and governance
- Outcomes — measurable results of care
- Notifications and other data
Impact on Documentation
Your records now need to demonstrate outcomes, not just activity. Inspectors are looking for evidence that care is making a positive difference, that service users have choice and agency, and that risks are identified and managed proactively.
How to Prepare
- Shift to outcome-focused language in daily records
- Document service user feedback and preferences consistently
- Record evidence of learning from incidents and near-misses
- Ensure care plans are up to date and reflected in daily notes
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Evidentia provides AI-assisted suggestions and does not constitute professional, legal, or regulatory advice.
Evidentia Team
Compliance intelligence insights from the Recordsafe team.