Professor Sir Mike Richards steps down as CQC Chair

Professor Sir Mike Richards has resigned as Chair of the Care Quality Commission (CQC). He has agreed to continue until another Chair can be appointed.

Prof Sir Mike said: "It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the Care Quality Commission, following my independent review of the Assessment Framework. I am extremely grateful for the trust placed in me.

We have made progress on several critical improvements. I am particularly pleased that we now have specialist sector teams in place and will shortly be communicating the consultation response on the new Assessment Approach.

"However, it has become increasingly clear that the turnaround of the CQC—alongside the work required to establish it as the world’s leading health and care regulator—will demand a longer-term commitment as Chair than I am able to make.

"Finally, with Sir Julian Hartley’s departure, there is an urgent need to appoint a permanent CEO. After careful consideration, I believe it would be best for this appointment to be led by a new Chair who can commit to providing long‑term continuity.

"I remain fully committed to the CQC’s future success and to supporting any incoming Chair during the transition."

Dr Arun Chopra, Interim Chief Executive Officer of the CQC said: "On behalf of the leadership team and the wider organisation, I would like to thank Sir Mike for his contribution to rebuilding the CQC- from his Independent Review and in his role as our Chair over the last year. We are committed to delivering on the recommendations that he made and to rebuilding our organisation so that we deliver for patients and people who use services."