The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced plans to implement an excellence in adult social care scheme, due to be launched in April of 2012.

The scheme will allow the governing body to recognise those in adult social care jobs who are working to the highest-possible standards, going above and beyond to provide care for their patients. It will be voluntary, so care providers will be able to nominate themselves, if they believe their achievements meet the criteria.

CareHome.co.uk reported that the criteria is as yet unknown; however a consultation is set to take place, in order to define what excellence is within the adult care sector.

It is also not know which company will facilitate and deliver the scheme, however the CQC has opened up the floor to bids from public, private and voluntary sector organisations, who think they have what it takes.

According to a representative of the CQC, the scheme will also help to encourage more people working within the industry to up their game.

Published on CQC.org.uk, a statement from representatives read: CQC's role is to identify and react to signs that people may be receiving poor care. This means we can say we don't see signs of risk at a provider, but this is not the same as saying a provider is offering 'excellent' care."

"We do firmly believe that care providers should aspire to provide the best-possible outcomes. An excellence award can recognise best practice, be a spur for improvement to providers who already meet essential standards, and can help people who need longer-term care to make choices."