Concerns raised at centres designated for disabled adults in Donegal

Concerns have been raised in relation to the protection of residents at a designated centre for adults with disabilities at the Dunwiley Centre, in Donegal.

It was found that an incident of alleged suspected abuse had not been suspected as a safeguarding concern. The report states: “One notification about an alleged suspected abuse was not submitted to the Chief Inspector as it was not identified as a suspected safeguarding concern. One incident of bruising was not included on the relevant quarterly notification.”

The latest HIQA  inspection, which took place on September 7 and 8, was a follow up inspection to review actions required as identified in an inspection in February 2022. 

The inspection found that residents were found to be supported with their needs and overall wellbeing. However, improvements were required in some aspects of risk management, in ensuring that the procedures for the protection of residents and for the review of physical interventions were adhered to at all times, which would further ensure a safe and quality service at all times.

On the days of inspection, residents were attending their day service, going out for coffee, going out on the bus, visiting family and going swimming. One resident greeted the inspector on arrival at the centre, and spoke about things that they liked doing and plans that they had for the day. 

The report found that residents were supported by staff in line with their assessed needs and staffing requirements throughout the inspection. Staff were observed to be caring and respectful in their interactions with residents, and were observed responding to residents in a prompt and warm manner.

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Meanwhile, concerns were also highlighted over residents’ rights at Teach Sona.

The centre is located in Donegal and is governed by HSE services in Sligo/ Leitrim.

Inspectors say residents’ right to privacy was significantly impacted as CCTV cameras recorded areas of the centre which residents had not been made aware of. The report states: “Residents were routinely offered choice in this centre. These choices were respected. Residents were treated with dignity and respect. However, the residents' right to privacy was significantly impacted as CCTV cameras recorded private areas of the centre and residents had not been made aware of this.”