ADASS and CQC refresh joint working protocol

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) have updated our Joint Working Protocol (JWP) agreement that sets out how we work together to share information and promote quality and safety.  

The revised JWP was agreed in April 2026 and provides a  framework to support the working relationship between CQC and local authorities. Since 2019 there have been changes in both organisations, therefore the JWP needed a refresh to reflect these changes.  

This JWP embraces the collaborative approach needed by Directors of Adult Social Services (DASSs) and CQC, around safe and high-quality services and transparency and sharing of information, regardless of local authority inspection by CQC. This new Protocol is an opportunity to continuously improve how we work together by setting out clear guidelines to help partners understand what to share and when. 

The protocol updates and strengthens existing ways of working to ensure more effective information sharing reflecting changes across the health and care system and learning from recent years. The changes include:  

• A renewed commitment to working collaboratively at local, regional and national levels, and introducing a clearer tiered approach to engagement and governance. 

• A stronger emphasis on sharing data and intelligence. Improving how we share information between CQC, local authorities and partners will enable earlier, more proportionate intervention and support before issues escalate. 

• A wider scope to focus more on human rights, equality and reducing health inequalities. It reinforces a shared commitment to ensure that people who draw on care and support services that are equitable, respectful and safe, and that the needs of diverse communities are better understood and addressed. 

• Stronger safeguarding arrangements, including clearer expectations around sharing information related to the misuse of the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards.  

• Better co-ordination between CQC and ADASS when responding to emergencies and serious incidents. Clearer roles, communication and escalation routes aim to support a quicker, joined-up response during periods of heightened risk or pressure on the system. 

Chris Badger, Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, said: “This refreshed joint working protocol reflects our shared commitment to open and constructive partnership working, and to continuously improve. Most importantly, by strengthening how we work together at local, regional and national levels, we are helping to support better outcomes for people who rely on adult social care services, keeping them safe when using services and ensuring they receive high‑quality care.” 

Phil Holmes, President of ADASS, said: “Strengthening the working relationship between ADASS and the CQC via the refreshed joint working protocol is another collaborative step towards improving adult social care services. Improving how we work together and share information effectively will help ensure our members and the people who they support who are drawing on social care know that the services they are using are safe and effective.”