Mapping NICE guidelines to the CQC’s single assessment framework

This resource is intended to demonstrate how our guidance can be used in the Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment process.

It was developed and reviewed by both NICE and the CQC and maps NICE guidelines to specific quality statements.

CQC have developed a single assessment framework to use in all their assessments of services. It sets out quality statements which providers should uphold under the 5 key questions of safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Key question: well-led

Currently there are no specific related guidelines or quality standards that directly map to question 5: 'Are they well-led?'

Please note, this is not a complete and definitive mapping. Many of our guidelines contain sections or individual recommendations relevant to the CQC quality statements. For specified conditions and diseases, it is worth reading the guideline itself to identify recommendations specific to that condition and aligned with the CQC quality statements.

For most of our guidelines, there are accompanying quality standards that highlight key areas for improvement.

For queries and suggestions, please email [email protected].

Key questions

  • Key question: safe

    This focuses on protecting service users, staff, and visitors from abuse and avoidable harm.

  • Key question: effective

    This assesses whether care, treatment, and support achieve good outcomes, help maintain quality of life, and are based on the best available evidence.

  • Key question: caring

    This evaluates whether staff involve and treat people with compassion, kindness, dignity, and respect.