A CONSULTANCY business which helps residential care homes meet the requirements of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has received financial support from Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC).

After 14 years working as a regulator and inspector of adult social care, Chris Johnson took the plunge and set up his own care consultancy firm, Care Consultancy Solutions.

Now the firm has been the recipient of a cheque from TVBC's Business Incentive Grant scheme.

Councillor Alan Dowden said: “With people living much longer these days, residential homes are in increasing demand and must comply to the CQC standards. I know from my experience in Social Care that residential homes could benefit from the outstanding advice and support that this business offers.”

Mr Johnson said: “I had been frustrated for some time with the limitations of my job as a regulator and often came away from an inspection wishing I could provide more advice, support and guidance than the role allowed. I would like to thank Test Valley Borough Council for the grant. It is a great help to a new business.

Mr Johnson has also linked up with Hampshire Care Association which represents care providers and will offer a 10 hour per week open surgery paid for by the association with further bespoke advice for individual provider.