Today, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has published 24 inspection reports on designated centres for people with disabilities. HIQA inspects 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, which apply to residential services for people with disabilities in Ireland. 

Of these 24 inspections, inspectors found a good level of compliance with the regulations and standards in 21 centres, including in centres operated by Ability West; Brothers of Charity Services; Daughters of Charity Disability Support Services; GALRO and the Health Service Executive (HSE). At the time of inspection, the provider was ensuring a good standard of support and care that met residents’ needs in these 21 centres. 

Examples of good practice observed by inspectors included:

• Staff in a Brothers of Charity Services centre planned alternative meaningful and safe social activities for residents during COVID-19 restrictions. Residents were brought on trips and took part in outdoor activities, including a step challenge between houses. The person in charge reported that this resulted in healthier choices and activities for residents, with health benefits such as better weight management.
• In a GALRO centre, residents were supported to communicate in their preferred manner with detailed communication plans in place. Residents had access to electronic tablets and other assistive technology. Staff used social stories, pictorial images, sign language and sensory equipment to help residents communicate and understand their routines and activities which was found to be very positive.
• A Daughters of Charity Disability Support Services centre was found to be a hive of activity on the day of inspection, with residents coming and going to access activities. Residents were encouraged to participate in a range of activities and household chores to promote independence and learn new skills.

Inspectors identified non-compliance with the regulations and standards on three inspections. 

Inspectors found non-compliance with the regulations and standards in two Brothers of Charity Services centres, including issues relating to governance and management and individual assessment and plans. Furthermore, the provider had not ensured that the centre’s management systems guaranteed that the service provided was safe and appropriate to all residents’ needs.

An inspection of a centre operated by the HSE did not provide adequate assurances that risk management control measures were put in place following a recent incident that occurred in the centre. Residents’ individual risk assessments regarding the risk of falls were found to require further improvements. 

Read all reports at www.hiqa.ie.