Is it necessary to register with the CQC when providing supported living to service users with mental health issues?

Answered by Abi Spence

CQC give helpful information on page 21 of the Scope of Registration – https://www.cqc.org.uk/sites/default/files/2022-05/20220517%20Scope%20of%20Registration%20Guidance%20May%202022.pdf

Regulated Activity Personal Care

‘This regulated activity does not apply if your service does not provide the activities defined as personal care. See Regulation 2 and Schedule 1(1) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 for full details. It is the nature of the care (activity) being provided that determines the need for registration and which regulated activity is applicable. For example, you do not need to register if you only provide housing support or social support (such as help with shopping), but no tasks that are included in the definition of personal care. Similarly, you do not need to register for the activity if you only provide support to administer, prompt or supervise medicines but do not intend to provide any of the activities defined as personal care.’

In addition, I cannot ascertain from your question how you have defined your service is ‘supported living’.  Please see additional guidance the CQC has developed here on housing with care. https://www.cqc.org.uk/sites/default/files/20151023_provider_guidance-housing_with_care.pdf