The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has named Chris Badger as its new Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care. He will officially join the regulator in September, transitioning from his current role as Director of Adult Care Services at Hertfordshire County Council. With 15 years of experience in adult social care, Badger brings a wealth of knowledge to the position.
In his new role, Badger will oversee the regulation of services that support older adults and individuals with complex care needs. He will also be responsible for evaluating how effectively local authorities are fulfilling their responsibilities to provide adult social care in their communities.
His appointment completes the CQC’s leadership team of four chief inspectors, each tasked with driving regulation and improvement across key areas: mental health, hospitals, primary and community care, and adult social care. This marks a significant step in the organisation’s strategic realignment.
Julian Hartley, Chief Executive of the CQC, commented:
“The challenges in adult social care—particularly around funding, staffing, and retention—are well known. Chris’s hands-on experience with providers, councils, and service users will be instrumental in enhancing our regulatory approach and raising standards across the sector.”
Hartley also extended his gratitude to James Bullion, the outgoing interim Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, who chose not to apply for the permanent role:
“James’s professionalism and expertise have been invaluable over the past two years. We thank him for his service and wish him all the best for the future.”
Reflecting on his appointment, Badger said:
“I’ve seen the profound impact that excellent adult social care can have on people’s lives, as well as the sector’s ongoing challenges. Strong regulation is essential to ensuring people receive the high-quality, personalised care they deserve. I look forward to working with providers and councils to build a trusted and effective regulatory framework.”
“Ultimately, people need timely, accurate information to make informed choices about their care. Our goal is to ensure that care is tailored to each individual’s needs and aspirations.”
