National Care Standards Commission (NCSC)

The National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) was established on 1 April 2001 to regulate health and social care services and promote the improvement of quality of services. The NCSC fully took over its duties on 1 April 2002.

Its statutory duties included:

• registration of social care and independent services and providers
• conducting inspections of premises
• stimulating the improvement of service quality.

In registering and inspections, the NCSC used national minimum standards that covered themes including the quality of nutrition and recreational activities and the quality of care received by service users.

The establishment of the independent regulatory body was welcomed by the Patients Association and National Care Homes Association. However, Paul Burstow, Liberal Democrat health spokesperson, advised caution. He was wary of what he perceived as a lack of resources and legal 'teeth' for inspectors to exercise enforcement in cases of failing standards in provider organisations.