What CQC Expects From Safeguarding Training in Health and Social Care
Safeguarding training is a key area of focus during CQC inspections, yet there is often uncertainty about what inspectors actually expect to see.
While training certificates are important, CQC looks beyond attendance. Inspectors want to understand whether safeguarding training is appropriate to role, up to date, and embedded into practice across health and social care organisations.
This article explores what CQC expects from safeguarding training and how organisations can demonstrate this effectively.
Safeguarding Is a Leadership Responsibility
CQC views safeguarding as a core leadership and governance responsibility, not just a training requirement.
Inspectors will consider whether leaders:
Understand safeguarding responsibilities
Ensure staff receive appropriate training
Monitor compliance and refresher cycles
Act on safeguarding concerns consistently
Training alone is not enough — leadership oversight and accountability are essential.
Training vs Competence: What Inspectors Look For
One of the most common misconceptions is that safeguarding training equals safeguarding competence.
CQC inspectors often explore:
Whether staff understand safeguarding in practice
How staff would respond to a concern
Whether staff know reporting pathways
How learning is reinforced beyond initial training
Organisations should be able to demonstrate that training supports confidence, understanding and application, not just completion.
Evidence Matters
During inspection, CQC may request evidence of safeguarding training, including:
Training records aligned to role
Refresher schedules
Induction safeguarding training
Ongoing learning and updates
How safeguarding learning is shared or reviewed
Clear, organised records help demonstrate that safeguarding training is planned, monitored and reviewed appropriately.
Common Gaps Identified in Safeguarding Training
Across health and social care, common safeguarding gaps include:
Outdated training
Incorrect training levels for role
Over-reliance on online-only learning
Limited understanding of escalation processes
Inconsistent recording and reporting
Addressing these gaps strengthens both safeguarding practice and inspection readiness.
Strengthening Safeguarding Training in Practice
To meet CQC expectations, organisations should consider:
Aligning training to recognised guidance
Ensuring training reflects current practice
Providing opportunities for discussion and reflection
Reviewing safeguarding learning regularly
Linking training to policies and procedures
Safeguarding training should support staff to recognise concerns, respond appropriately and act with confidence.
CQC does not expect perfection — but it does expect organisations to take safeguarding seriously.
Effective safeguarding training is role-appropriate, current and supported by strong leadership and governance. When training is embedded into organisational culture, it not only supports inspection outcomes but, most importantly, helps protect people from harm.