In 2013, HIQA published National Standards for Residential Services for Children and Adults with Disabilities. Since then, there have been significant legislative advancements, with an increased focus on a human-rights based approach to care, including the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCPRD) in 2018 and the commencement of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015.

HIQA has undertaken an evidence review to ascertain what has changed in the sector since the standards were published in 2013 and to identify important areas for inclusion in any updated standards. The evidence review summarises national and international reports and research to identify the characteristics of person-centred care in residential services for children and adults with disabilities, describing how people can experience safe, high-quality outcomes from the care and support they receive. Key areas for consideration in any update to the standards include governance, a human rights-based approach to care, safeguarding, person-centred planning, good communication and effective transitions within and between services.

Key findings from the evidence review are presented under the four interlinked principles of:  

• A human rights-based approach
• Safety and wellbeing
• Governance and accountability
• Responsiveness.