We continue to see an increase in the number of designated centres for people with disabilities being registered in Ireland. Today, there are 1,358 registered centres which are supporting 9,177 adults and children with disabilities.
Our risk-based inspection programme continues with 234 inspections completed in disability services by the end of March 2021. We are also busy progressing registration applications, and managing escalation activity and notifications received from providers. By the end of quarter 1 in 2021, we have received over 7,000 notifications, 21% more than this time last year.
Thankfully, the number of outbreaks of COVID-19 in disability centres being reported to us has reduced significantly in March. We have been busy monitoring, inspecting and supporting providers with their management of COVID-19 throughout the third wave. The last three months have been very challenging for residents and providers.
As part of the response to the public health emergency, our Provider Representative Forum is meeting monthly meeting to ensure effective communication between the regulator and providers. The forum includes representatives from the National Federation of Voluntary Service Providers, Disability Federation of Ireland, the Not for Profit Business Alliance and the HSE in their role as service provider.
As well as discussions on the management of the risk of COVID-19, at the most recent meetings there was also discussion on topics such as the management of the risk of Legionnaire’s Disease in centres, the LENS Project (detailed earlier in this issue), and a discussion on HIQA’s plans to engage with residents groups in 2021 to hear their views on what is important to them.
In addition, in March, the Deputy Chief Inspector met with delegates of the National Federation of Voluntary Service Providers to discuss the implementation of safeguarding measures in centres and the regulatory approach to safeguarding.
Stay up to date with our work in disability services and view the latest inspection reports on www.hiqa.ie.