CQC Mock Inspector – Zero-Hours Contract (Flexible, Ad-hoc Assignments)
Location: Various locations across England (travel required for on-site inspections)
Contract Type: Zero-hours / Casual / Freelance
Rate: Competitive day rate (negotiable based on experience) – paid per completed mock inspection
Ideal for: Retired former CQC Inspectors | Experienced CQC professionals seeking flexible, low-commitment work | Quality & compliance experts wanting occasional assignments
About the Role
We are seeking experienced professionals to join our pool of associate CQC Mock Inspectors on a zero-hours basis. This role involves conducting realistic, simulated CQC inspections (mock inspections) for care homes, domiciliary care agencies, supported living services, and other health & social care providers across England.
These mock inspections mirror the official Care Quality Commission (CQC) process — including the Single Assessment Framework (where applicable), the five key questions (Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, Well-led), observations, staff & service user interviews, record reviews, and evidence gathering — to help providers identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement before their real regulatory visit.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and conduct full or focused mock CQC inspections (typically 1 full day on-site, occasionally ½ day or multi-day for larger services)
Act as an independent, objective "inspector" — replicating CQC methodology, questioning style, and evidence-based approach
Provide verbal feedback on the day and deliver a detailed, professional written report highlighting compliance levels, potential Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOE) judgements, positive practice, and actionable recommendations
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of CQC regulations, guidance, and inspection practice
Travel to provider locations as required (expenses reimbursed)
Frequency & Flexibility
This is a truly flexible opportunity:
Assignments offered approximately every 6–8 weeks (or less/more frequently depending on your availability and our client demand)
You choose which jobs to accept — perfect for semi-retirement or supplementing income without fixed hours
No minimum number of inspections required — work as little or as often as suits you
Who We Are Looking For
Essential:
Previous direct experience as a CQC Inspector (highly desirable) or significant senior experience in health & social care regulation, compliance, or quality improvement roles
Strong working knowledge of current CQC standards, the Single Assessment Framework, fundamental standards, and inspection processes
Excellent observational, interviewing, analytical, and report-writing skills
Professional, calm, and diplomatic approach when giving constructive feedback
Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle (travel expenses paid)
Desirable:
Recent experience of CQC inspections (either as inspector or inspected provider)
Familiarity with mock/preparatory inspection delivery
DBS check on the update service (or willingness to obtain one)
What We Offer
Highly flexible working — ideal for retired CQC inspectors or those wanting occasional, meaningful work
Competitive remuneration per inspection completed
Opportunity to stay current in the sector and support care providers to improve quality
Full briefing/support for each assignment
Reimbursement of reasonable travel & subsistence expenses
Freedom to balance with other commitments, consultancy work, or retirement
If you are a former CQC Inspector (or equivalent senior compliance/quality professional) looking for purposeful, flexible work without the commitment of a permanent role, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short covering note outlining your relevant CQC/regulatory experience and availability to: [insert email address here]
Use subject line: CQC Mock Inspector – Zero-Hours Application
We welcome applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds. All applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.
We look forward to hearing from you