The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has today published an inspection report on the non-statutory foster care service operated by Five Rivers Ireland. 

HIQA inspected the service between 24 and 27 March 2026 to assess compliance with the National Standards for Foster Care (2003). The inspection focused on the safeguarding of children and young people placed in foster care. Placements are commissioned by the Child and Family Agency’s (Tusla) service area teams. Of the five standards assessed, HIQA found two standards were compliant, one was substantially compliant, and two were not compliant. 

HIQA found that children described an overall positive experience of the service and were treated with dignity and respect; their rights were promoted, and they were being cared for by foster carers who understood their responsibilities. 

Foster carers were committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment, which was child centred and responsive to children’s needs. Assessments of foster carers were carried out in accordance with national guidance; they provided thorough analysis of an applicant’s capacity to foster and were completed by a suitably-qualified assessing social worker. Five Rivers Ireland completed reviews of foster carers in line with national standards and reports were completed to a high standard. 

The provider had long-established management and governance structures in place. However, the inspection found that improvements were required to ensure safeguarding concerns were identified and responded to effectively. Five Rivers Ireland had policies and procedures in place to safeguard and protect children, but these were not adhered to in all cases. Overall, HIQA found some gaps in safeguarding and the management and monitoring of the foster care service.

Following the inspection, Five Rivers Ireland submitted a compliance plan which provided satisfactory assurances to address identified gaps and non-compliances with the national standards.

Note:

• HIQA is authorised by the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality under Section 69 of the Child Care Act, 1991 as amended by Section 26 of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 to inspect foster care services commissioned by Tusla and to report on its findings to the Minister. HIQA monitors the performance of providers against the National Standards for Foster Care (2003) and advises the Minister and Tusla.