Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 on the viability of medical professionals who are not registered with the Care Quality Commission for events being able to continue to provide cover for such events, for example on a voluntary basis.

Following the Manchester Arena Inquiry, the new rules bring treatment of disease, disorder, or injury (TDDI) at sporting and cultural events, sports grounds, and gymnasiums under the regulation of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and are intended to ensure that higher-risk event healthcare is appropriately regulated to support safe, high-quality care.

This only applies where the care in such circumstances is being provided by, or under the supervision of, listed healthcare professionals, or by a team including such a professional. Existing exceptions, including the provision of medical cover that would typically be considered “first aid”, or employer-arranged healthcare for employees, are unaffected.

The Department and the CQC recognise sector concerns, including about the potential impact on volunteers and individual clinicians. Both organisations will continue to engage with stakeholders during the implementation phase, and the Department will consider whether further action is needed to address any unintended consequences.