What Do You Need Before Applying to CIW?

Before you apply to register a care service with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW), get prepared first.

The exact documents depend on your service and provider type. But CIW's current guidance gives a clear starting point.

Important: Always check the latest CIW guidance before applying.

1. Be Clear About Your Service

You should be able to explain:

• What service you will provide
• Who you will support
• Where you will operate
• How the service will work
• Who will lead and oversee it

If the service itself is unclear, the application will be unclear too.

2. Read the Right Guidance

CIW says providers should familiarise themselves with relevant legislation, guidance and National Minimum Standards before applying.

Start here, not with the application form.

Read our guide: How to Start a Care Service in Wales.

3. Prepare Your Statement of Purpose

A Statement of Purpose is a legal requirement for an application to register a regulated service.

It should explain:

• Who the provider is
• The type of service
• Where it operates
• The aims and objectives
• How the service will be provided

It must accurately describe the service you actually plan to run.

4. Get Your Policies and Procedures Ready

CIW says providers should ensure they have relevant policies and procedures.

Depending on your service, these may cover:

• Safeguarding
• Complaints
• Recruitment
• Training
• Risk
• Record keeping
• Quality monitoring
• Governance

Do not collect documents just for the sake of it. Build systems your team can understand and use.

5. Check Leadership and Qualifications

Be clear about who will:

• Provide the service
• Manage day-to-day work
• Act as Responsible Individual, where required
• Oversee quality

CIW also says providers should ensure they have relevant qualifications.

6. Prepare the Required Documents

CIW currently lists documents that may include:

• Statement of Purpose
• Current DBS information for Responsible Individuals and individual applicants
• Floor plans
• Bank reference
• Two-year business plan
• Detailed projected cash flow
• Annual accounts, where applicable
• Organisation structure plan
• Medical reference for Responsible Individuals

Some requirements vary by provider type. Check the current CIW list carefully.

7. Check Your Financial Plan

Ask:

• What will staffing cost?
• What are the main running costs?
• How much cash is needed before income is stable?
• What happens if costs increase?

A business plan is not just paperwork. It should help you decide whether the service is realistic.

8. Review Everything Before You Apply

Check:

• The service is clearly defined
• The right guidance has been read
• The Statement of Purpose is complete
• Policies fit the service
• Leadership is clear
• Required checks and qualifications are ready
• Financial plans are realistic
• Documents are current
• All documents describe the same service

Need Help Getting Ready?

MILD Professional Care Services can help you prepare for registration and build a clear foundation.

Get CIW registration support.