Getting registered with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) is a big step.
But registration is not the end.
Now you have to run the service you said you would run.
That means keeping people safe, following the rules that apply to your service and continuing to check how well the service is working.
1. You Can Start Providing the Service
If registration is required, you must wait until CIW grants registration and issues a Notice of Decision before starting the service.
Once registered, you should operate within your registration and the service described in your documents.
2. Your Service Can Be Inspected
CIW inspects regulated services to check quality, safety, well-being and rights.
Inspections can happen at different times and CIW has the power to inspect regulated services at any time.
Many inspections are usually unannounced, although CIW may give short notice for some types of service.
3. Inspectors Look at Evidence
CIW says inspectors use different types of evidence, including:
- What they see
- What people tell them
- What they read
They may speak with people using the service, staff and others connected to the service.
4. Quality Should Be Part of Everyday Work
Do not wait for an inspection to check whether things are working.
CIW's quality of care review guidance supports providers to look at outcomes and use what they learn to improve.
Think about:
- What is working well?
- What is not working well?
- What are people telling us?
- What needs to change?
5. Keep Important Information Up to Date
Your Statement of Purpose should be kept under review and revised when appropriate.
Other regulatory information may also need updating when your service changes.
Always check the current CIW requirements before making significant changes.
6. Responsible Individuals Have Ongoing Duties
Where a Responsible Individual is required, the role continues after registration.
CIW guidance includes requirements around statutory visits and oversight.
The goal is not just to have a name attached to the role.
The service should have real oversight.
7. You May Need to Complete an Annual Return
Registered providers have ongoing reporting duties.
CIW's 2026 annual return guidance says providers should have important information available, including the latest Quality of Care Review, relevant Responsible Individual visit reports and the latest Statement of Purpose.
Registration Is the Start of the Work
A strong provider builds a system for:
- Providing good care and support.
- Listening to people.
- Checking quality.
- Fixing problems.
- Learning and improving.
Need Ongoing Support?
MILD Professional Care Services can support providers beyond registration with governance, quality and service improvement.