This report delves into the critical aspects of quality management within the health and social care sector. It begins by emphasizing the importance of quality management in healthcare organizations, highlighting its role in patient safety and employee effectiveness. The report then examines the standards used to measure quality in health and social care, such as ISO 9000/14000, NMC, and CQC, and explores different approaches to implementing quality systems, including planning, target setting, communication, and audit. It identifies potential barriers to delivering quality services, categorizing them as internal (risks, resources, organizational structures) and external (inter-agency interactions, legislation). The report evaluates the effectiveness of systems, policies, and procedures, such as management leadership, involving people, process control, and total quality management. It also explores factors influencing the achievement of quality, including teamwork, training, and adherence to codes and standards. Finally, the report discusses ways to improve quality, emphasizing the importance of valuing front-line staff, customer service, and putting people first, concluding with the significance of internally generated standards. The report uses the case of Alicia Richman to illustrate practical issues and solutions.