Nearly three quarters of care homes originally rated Inadequate have improved their ratings following re-inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). 

As a result, over 12,000 people across the country are now experiencing better and safer care from these services.

Analysis published today, from 1 October 2014 to 31 March 2016 reveals out of 372 care homes rated as Inadequate, 73% (273) have improved their overall ratings following the most recent inspection.

From these re-inspections, three quarters have gone from Inadequate to Requires Improvement and a quarter have gone from Inadequate to Good.

99 of the care homes did not demonstrate sufficient progress to have their overall rating amended. 34 care homes that were Inadequate and re-inspected have subsequently become inactive – either following enforcement action taken by CQC or due to the provider choosing to close the service. 

CQC’s Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, Andrea Sutcliffe, said: "I welcome the improvements we have seen during our re-inspections of care homes that were originally rated as Inadequate. 

“Real change does not happen overnight – the improved ratings are a testament to the time, effort and determination of providers, their managers and their staff. This is good news for the people who use their services who have every right to expect care we would be happy for a loved one to receive.

"While services that have moved to Requires Improvement are heading in the right direction, I am clear that this is still not good enough and providers cannot afford to be complacent. Evidence of consistent practice and sustainability is what we are looking for, to ensure people always get the Good care they deserve. 

"Ultimately, if services cannot or will not improve for the benefit of people they are paid to support, then quite frankly there is no place for them in the care sector. 

"But what I really want is for great care to become the norm. I recognise the stresses and strains being felt in the sector, but through working together, good quality care is what everyone must strive for. Most importantly, and as this latest analysis demonstrates, it can be done."

Speaking today Chief Executive of Care England, Professor Martin Green, said: "I am very encouraged to see the latest report from the Care Quality Commission and this clearly shows that despite the care sector facing significant challenges, there is clear evidence that improvements in the quality of care are being sustained."

Executive Director at the National Care Forum (NCF), Vic Rayner, said: "Sustained improvements in the quality of care provided across adult social care is great news. At NCF we appreciate first hand just how hard providers are working to develop innovative, personalised services that meet CQC requirements – and most importantly the requirements of residents and their families. NCF believes that commitment towards quality is fundamental, and recognises the important role CQC plays in championing this agenda."