HIQA conducted an unannounced inspection of a children’s residential centre managed by Tusla in the South region in March 2024. The inspection focused on the leadership of the service and how effectively the centre was managed, including its response to risk. The inspection also considered the individual care and support that children received; whether it was of a good quality, child-centred and ensured that children were kept safe. 

Of the 12 standards assessed, the service was found to be compliant in five, substantially compliant in five and not compliant in two. 

The residential centre had clearly defined governance structures in place to oversee the delivery of care. Overall, the day-to-day management of the service was adequate, but there were some gaps in leadership capacity and the expected levels of governance and supervision of staff. This included vacant social care leader posts, with only two of the four positions filled at the time of this inspection. This meant that not all staff received the levels of support and supervision that were set out in organisational policies, including newly appointed staff. Staff rota arrangements at the centre were also not in line with practice in other centres run by the provider.  

The service clearly recognised the individual needs and rights of each child, including their right to be safe, respected and to practice their faith. Front-line staff were observed to have open and warm relationships with the children and sensitively encouraged them to share their worries and concerns. The health, development and wellbeing of each child was promoted and protected, with evidence of improved outcomes in relation to their health, independent living skills and quality of life. Children said they were mostly satisfied with the help and care they received.

The provider has submitted a compliance plan to assist the service to come into compliance in all areas. The inspection report and compliance plan can be found at www.hiqa.ie. 

Notes:

• HIQA is authorised by the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under Section 69 of the Child Care Act 1991 as amended by Section 26 of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011, to inspect children’s residential care services provided by Tusla. HIQA monitors Tusla’s performance against the National Standards for Children’s Residential Centres and advises the Minister and Tusla.