CQC INSPECTION 2025
An excellent CQC report for our gambling harms support
The Care Quality Commission has recognised Ara’s free, evidence-based service as safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led across the South West of England.
The Inspection
In June and July 2025, CQC inspected our gambling harms treatment and support work as part of the National Gambling Support Network. Their assessment looked at five areas: how we keep people safe, how effective our support is, how caring our team is, how responsive we are to need, and how well the service is led.
The Five Pillars
Safe
A positive culture of safety and openness. Staff are confident in raising concerns, safeguarding is well understood, and recruitment and training are robust.
Effective
Support tailored to each individual, based on thorough assessments and aligned with NICE guidelines. CQC saw strong outcomes and real-life positive change.
Caring
Compassionate, respectful and non-judgemental. People told inspectors they felt listened to, whether supported face to face or remotely.
Responsive
Personalised care plans built collaboratively, flexible access to sessions, and regular feedback loops that keep the service evolving.
Well-led
Experienced, approachable leadership. A culture of learning, strong governance, independence from gambling industry influence, and partnerships spanning prisons to schools.