I would like to thank the Deputy for enclosing the article which is shocking. I understand that the Judge in this case ruled that the individuals and organisations involved were not to be identified in order to protect the victim.
Every person who uses our disability services is entitled to expect and receive supports of the highest standard and to live in an atmosphere of safety and care.
The notification of allegations of any/ all complaints of any abuse, sexual or otherwise, in relation to vulnerable adults by staff working in care centres should be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for investigation under its National Policy and Procedures for Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse.
The safeguarding and protection of vulnerable people in the care of the health service is of paramount importance. The Director General of the HSE has written to all staff instructing them to take personal responsibility for ensuring that individuals supported by the HSE in any setting are treated with dignity and respect.
The HSE has undertaken a number of initiatives to ensure that quality and safe care in services for people with disabilities is appropriately implemented and monitored, including:
- The establishment of a National Implementation Taskforce, including a series of National Summits to improve client safety, dignity, respect and culture;
- Implementation of the National Policy & Procedures on Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse;
- Development of an Advocacy programme;
- Implementation of an evaluation and quality improvement programme in disability residential centres;
- Development of an implementation plan for any recommendations arising from the McCoy review of residential services in Áras Attracta when complete and,
- Development of long term sustainable & evidence-based safeguarding practices and training programmes specific to residential settings.
In addition the HSE has appointed Ms. Leigh Gath as "Confidential Recipient" for the Health Service. The Confidential Recipient is independent in her functions. She has the authority to examine complaints or disclosures of abuse of vulnerable persons in receipt of HSE funded services and has the authority to:
- Independently advise and assist individuals on the best course of action to take to raise matters of concern;
- Assist with the referral and examination of concerns; and
- Ensure these matters are appropriately addressed by the HSE and its funded agencies.
In view of the seriousness of this matter, I have asked the HSE to provide a report to me and I will contact the Deputy once I have received and considered the report.
