Kelly Thirkeld

I am currently an Inspector working for CQC, with an extensive understanding of regulatory remit. On a daily basis I categorise risk and look for evidence of regulatory breaches. I monitor services, analyse data, review audits and audit plans, engage with stakeholders, plan inspections across sectors and write reports.

I have a strong background in risk management. I am experienced in thematic analysis of key performance indicators to monitor quality and highlight emerging risks/trends. I am skilled in looking at the micro and the macro of an organisation and triangulating the intrinsic and extrinsic influences that shape how we meet regulatory responsibilities and provide good quality care. A strength of mine is being able to clearly, and systematically, evidence and communicate our plan to respond to risk, providing detailed direction to those who are operationalising the changes required.

I have worked at provider level in preparing for CQC inspections and recognise the relationship achieving 'good' has between investment in, education of, and involvement of staff to cohesively work together in meeting regulatory requirements. I believe fundamentally to embed change and sustain improvements education is a key ingredient that can be imparted both formally in educative settings, but also informally by osmosis of changing and challenging rhetoric in a way that develops people, and does not ostracise. Emotional intelligence is required when you are navigating sub-optimal performance within a service that is facing challenges they do not know how to navigate in isolation.

I have worked in Quality Improvement leading on QI projects, often overseeing multiple projects simultaneously. My time at Oxford University has equipped me with a deeper understanding of data analysis and evidence based approach to health and social care. As part of QI projects, I have conducted training needs analysis' across service areas to ensure compliance with training and appropriate skill mix. I have a decade of experience in audit and action plans.

My clinical expertise and experience has been an advantage in my role at the CQC. I filter clinical information and identify gaps in regulated activities with rapidity, such as risk assessments, care plans, wound care and mental capacity assessments.