The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published 26 inspection reports on designated centres for people with disability in Ireland. These inspections are conducted against the Health Act 2007 (Care and Support of Residents in Designated Centres for Persons (Children and Adults) with Disabilities) Regulations 2013 and the National Standards for Residential Services for Children and Adults with Disabilities.
These rigorous standards are in place to ensure that the care provided to people with disabilities meets high levels of safety, support, and quality, and the inspection reports serve as a crucial tool for maintaining transparency and accountability in these services. Of the 26 inspections, inspectors found a generally good level of compliance with the regulations and standards in 19 centres operated by various providers.
These providers include Nua Healthcare Services Limited, Peamount Healthcare, Resilience Healthcare Limited, S O S Kilkenny CLG, Saint Patrick’s Centre (Kilkenny)/trading as Aurora-Enriching Lives, Enriching Communities, St Hilda’s Services, St John of God Community Services CLG, St Michael’s House, Stewarts Care DAC, Sunbeam House Services CLG, Talbot Care Unlimited Company, and Western Care Association. The high compliance levels in these centres indicate a strong commitment to adhering to regulatory requirements and providing high-quality care and support to residents. It reflects positively on the management and staff of these centres who work diligently to maintain these standards.
Enhancing Resident Experiences in Disability Centres
At a centre in Kilkenny operated by Saint Patrick’s Centre (Kilkenny)/trading as Aurora-Enriching Lives, Enriching Communities, residents were supported to try different activities. Some residents enjoyed sound therapy, while one resident attended poetry readings and another had attended horse racing. Their communication supports were very effective, and residents used photographs and symbol-supported information to share their experiences with the inspector. Such practices not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also empower them to express themselves and engage meaningfully with their environment.
Residents at a centre operated by St Hilda’s Services in Westmeath had an abundance of arts and crafts materials, jigsaws, and games to enjoy. The inspector observed the house to be comfortable, tidy, and nicely decorated, with a large, colorful fish tank on display upon entering the centre. This environment creates a welcoming and stimulating atmosphere that can greatly improve the well-being and happiness of the residents. It also shows the staff’s dedication to creating a home-like setting that caters to the interests and needs of the residents.
At a centre in Dublin operated by St Michael’s House, staff had completed training in human rights, which was evident during the inspection. One resident who had previously chosen to retire from day services was now being supported by staff to choose their own routine and participate in activities in line with their likes and interests. This approach respects the autonomy and individual preferences of the residents, ensuring that their daily lives are both fulfilling and aligned with their personal choices.
Non-Compliances Identified
Non-compliances impacting the delivery of care and support to residents were identified in seven other centres. Poor governance was identified at two centres operated by Sunbeam House Services CLG. At one centre, the management of safeguarding incidents required improvement to minimize the impact on residents. Fire safety measures required improvement at the other centre. These issues highlight the need for enhanced oversight and better implementation of safety protocols to protect the well-being of residents.
Poor management of risks and ongoing institutional practices impacted residents at a centre operated by Western Care Association. The management of staffing and residents’ records required improvement to ensure residents’ needs were met at a centre operated by Peamount Healthcare. These findings suggest that more robust management systems and practices are needed to ensure that staff can effectively meet the needs of residents and maintain accurate records. At a centre operated by Nua Healthcare Services Limited, improvements were needed in fire safety and the premises to ensure residents’ needs were met. The management of residents’ personal finances required improvement at a centre operated by Saint Patrick’s Centre (Kilkenny)/trading as Aurora-Enriching Lives, Enriching Communities.
These deficiencies underline the importance of having comprehensive safety measures and transparent financial management practices to safeguard residents’ welfare. Fire safety measures needed to be improved to protect residents at a centre operated by Three Steps Limited. Ensuring fire safety is critical in any residential setting, and improvements in this area are essential to prevent potential hazards and ensure the safety of all residents.
These inspection reports provide valuable insights into the compliance levels and quality of care provided in designated centres for people with disabilities. While many centres demonstrate high levels of compliance and good practice, there are still areas that require significant improvement to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and enhancement of care standards in disability services. By addressing the identified issues and building on the examples of good practice, these centres can further improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.
Resource: Health Information and Quality Authority, July 17, 2024
This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.