Free CQC checklist template · Annual
Freedom to speak up check
A free 6-point checklist for every type of CQC-registered service. It evidences the CQC quality statement “Freedom to speak up” under the Well-led key question (Reg 17), as feedback from staff and leaders. Built from NHS England. Answer each check below and download a PDF report, or print a blank form.
Checks
- Speaking up policy in place, based on the national policy
- Staff know who they can speak up to, including someone outside their line management
- Concerns raised are recorded and responded to
- Feedback given to people who spoke up
- Leaders have reflected on speaking up using the national reflection and planning tool
- No detriment: staff say they feel safe to speak up
Official sources
NHS England: Freedom to Speak Up: national policy, guidance and planning tool
This checklist summarises the official guidance. Check the sources for the full requirements.
Related CQC templates
From CQC, NHS Employers, Home Office (GOV.UK) · official toolTraining matrix reviewSafe and effective staffing
From CQCSupervision and appraisal record checkWorkforce wellbeing and enablement
From Skills for Care (charity), CQCIncident and learning reviewLearning culture
From NHS England · official toolDuty of candour checkLearning culture
From CQCComplaints handling reviewListening to and involving people
From Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman · official tool
Templates summarise official guidance as of October 2026. They do not replace it: always check the linked source for the full requirements. Audit Angel CQC is not affiliated with the Care Quality Commission.
Know your gaps before the inspector does.
Set-up takes ten minutes. Start with example evidence for your type of service, run your first audit, then replace the examples with your own.