Across the board, problems have been noted with staff shortages and medicine management. 14,000 NHS sites were looked at, including care homes, hospitals and dentists.

Maternity care as a whole was also flagged up.

On sites where problems were identified, managers have been told to draw up action plans to try and fix issues as quickly as possible. However, the report shows there were 130 sites where conditions were so bad, urgent action was demanded and restrictions were put in place.

Other problems highlighted by the report include: record keeping was a problem with independent service providers, with 18% not meeting the correct standards; with care homes, nearly 30% were not considered good enough, with staff struggling to cope and buildings falling a apart; and cleanliness was highlighted as an issue with dentists.

CQC deputy chief executive Jill Finney told the BBC, "We want providers to look closely at this report in order to assure themselves that they are taking all steps necessary to protect people from poor care."

Health minister Simon Burns added, "There is no excuse for delivering anything but the best care. By exposing poor practice and shining a light on best practice we are determined to drive up standards for everyone."