Child Disability Centre Failed to Ensure Safety, HIQA Report Finds

A center for children with disabilities, recently registered, has been found to repeatedly neglect essential safety measures, according to a critical report published by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).

An inspection earlier this year uncovered significant failings in governance, management, and monitoring by the private provider across all aspects of care. HIQA subsequently alerted both the HSE and Tusla to its concerns. The inspection followed a prior cautionary meeting with the provider regarding medicine management and other issues.

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The condition of the food in the fridge on the day of inspection indicated that this control measure had completely failed to be adhered too in any effective form.

Inspectors found "immediate risks" to residents due to the poor storage and cleanliness of food. One resident's refrigerator contained moldy, pungent-smelling food, including cooked rice that was four weeks old and cooked meat with no date information. The report noted that the young person was at significant risk, as a control measure requiring daily checks of food present in the center had evidently failed.

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The young person was at significant risk due to the lack of care and support in this area.

The overall condition of the center was described as poor, with a lack of cleanliness and decoration. Bedrooms had limited storage and decor, with broken doors and windows. Bathrooms were damaged, and the kitchen showed damp patches and peeling paint. Inspectors characterized the living area as "a bleak environment" with broken furniture and missing television.

Further concerns were raised regarding staff training, with five employees found to be lacking specific training in managing certain behaviors. The report highlights a systemic failure to ensure the safety and well-being of the young people residing at the center.

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a bleak environment