New Rules for Aesthetic Clinics: How to Stay Compliant with CQC – and How Swift Management Can Help
The UK Government has just announced a major shake-up of the regulation and licensing of aesthetic and non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England. This long-awaited move is aimed at tackling the so-called “Wild West” of the cosmetic industry and is a critical step toward protecting patients from unsafe, unregulated treatments.
At Swift Management Services, we welcome these developments and are ready to support aesthetic providers in navigating this regulatory landscape.
🚨 What’s Changing?
On 7 August 2025, the Department of Health and Social Care confirmed that new legislation will soon be introduced, targeting both high-risk and lower-risk aesthetic procedures:
🩸 High-Risk Procedures
Procedures such as liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts and dermal fillers injected into the breasts or genitals will:
– Only be legal if performed by qualified healthcare professionals.
– Be allowed only in Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered premises.
– Require practitioners to hold adequate insurance, training, and safety credentials.
– Be subject to enforcement measures and penalties for non-compliance.
💉 Lower-Risk Procedures (e.g., Botox, standard fillers)
– Will fall under a new licensing scheme managed by local authorities.
– Practitioners must meet hygiene, training, and insurance requirements.
– Local authorities will have the power to refuse, revoke, or suspend licences.
👧 Protection for Under-18s
– Under-18s will be prohibited from undergoing high-risk aesthetic treatments without medical justification from a qualified professional.
A public consultation is planned for early 2026 to refine the licensing criteria, particularly for lower-risk treatments.
💬 Why It Matters
These changes are not just about bureaucracy—they are about raising standards and ensuring safety across the industry. Each year, the NHS is burdened with the consequences of botched procedures from unregulated providers. This reform seeks to prevent harm and restore trust in cosmetic services.
🛡️ How Swift Management Can Help You Prepare
At Swift Management Services, we specialise in regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the health and social care sector—including for aesthetic and cosmetic providers. With this new regulatory framework, it’s more important than ever to ensure your services meet CQC requirements and public expectations.
✅ Our Support Services Include:
– CQC Registration: We guide you through the application process for both individuals and organisations, including support with Statement of Purpose, policies, and pre-inspection preparation.
– Compliance Audits: We assess your service against the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, providing actionable feedback to improve safety and standards.
– Mock Inspections: Our framework assessments simulate real CQC inspections, giving you insight and confidence ahead of regulatory visits.
– Governance Support: From risk assessments and safeguarding protocols to infection control and consent procedures, we ensure your documentation and practices are compliant and up to date.
– Training & Development: Tailored staff training on topics such as consent, dignity, confidentiality, and safe clinical practice—aligned with CQC expectations.
📞 Don’t Get Caught Out – Get Ahead
The regulatory landscape is changing fast. Whether you’re a new provider seeking registration or an established clinic needing to adjust your operations, Swift Management is here to help you stay compliant, safe, and successful.
📧 Email us at info@swiftmanagement.org.uk
🌐 Visit our website: www.swiftmanagement.org.uk
