Firstly, it is understandable that you are feeling anxious about your situation. Having an inspection by the CQC can be stressful, especially if you are not prepared. However, there are a few things that you can do in order to ease your anxiety and to try and speed up the process.
Firstly, it is important to remember that the Local Authority has a statutory duty to assess any applications for DoLS within 21 days. However, due to the recent pandemic, this timeframe may have been extended slightly. If you have not heard back from the officer within 21 days, you should chasing them for an update.
In terms of preparation for a CQC inspection, it is always helpful to have all of your paperwork in order. This includes any applications for DoLS, as well as any supporting documentation. Having everything to hand will make the inspection process much smoother and will help to demonstrate that you are taking the appropriate measures to protect the people in your care.
If you are still waiting for your DoLS authorisations to come through, you should speak to the CQC inspector when they arrive. Explain the situation and provide them with any supporting documentation that you have. The inspector will then be able to make a judgement on whether or not the people in your care are at risk.
Ultimately, it is important to remember that the CQC’s main focus is the safety and wellbeing of the people in your care. As long as you can demonstrate that you are taking all reasonable steps to protect them, you should be fine.