Immediate Release: 29/11/16
The latest HIQA report on a Residential Care Centre described significant risks identified under four standards: Care of Young People, Safeguarding and Child Protection, Premises and Safety, and Management and Staffing.
The inspectors found that although the centre was appropriately meeting children’s education and health care needs, and promoting good relationships in between staff and children, its failure to manage behaviour, risk, communication and supervision had resulted in some instances in children experiencing significant harm, and in children being frequently placed at risk of significant harm.
Speaking following the publication of the report, Director of EPIC, Jennifer Gargan made the following comment:
“EPIC is very concerned by HIQA’s findings on the extent of the risks present in this residential centre. We are alarmed by the number of negative significant events notifications that occurred over the last year, and we hope that swift action will be taken to address the high number of incidents of children being absent from the centre. It is seriously worrying that children were found to be exposed to higher risk situations and behaviours than the situations they were removed from.
Keeping children safe is paramount, especially during times of crisis. We trust that Tusla will address the grave issues raised by HIQA, to ensure that serious incidents are dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner, and that children are protected from harm.”
The children in Ferryhouse have complex needs, which is why a safe environment is crucial to their wellbeing and ensuring positive outcomes. The layout of the building was found to be unsuitable and preventing children from being kept safe. EPIC welcomes HIQA’s findings on the necessity of addressing the issues inherent to the premises.
ENDS
Notes to the Editor
- The HIQA inspection report is available to read here: https://www.hiqa.ie/social-care/find-a-centre/inspection-reports?field_report_type_centre_value_many_to_one=reportchildrens&keys=
- The centre is located on a large campus style facility which provides a range of services to young people and families. Three residential units provide care for up to 15 boys aged 12 to 16 years on admission.
For all media enquiries or to arrange an interview please contact:
Jennifer Gargan, Director of EPIC
Telephone: 01 8727 661 Mobile: 086 607 3866
Email: jennifergargan@epiconline.ie Website: www.epiconline.ie
EPIC (formerly IAYPIC) is an independent association that works throughout the Republic of Ireland, with and for children and young people who are currently living in care or who have had an experience of living in care.