Concern for teens in locked care facilities

CONCERNS were raised by a state agency that teenagers needing mental health services are being detained by court order in a locked facility simply because they can’t access help elsewhere.

The Social Services Inspectorate says it is “seriously concerned” that some admissions to the Ballydowd Special Care Unit are inappropriate and would not be necessary if there was sufficient psychiatric care for young people in hospitals and day clinics.

Ballydowd, in west Dublin, is meant as a last resort for 11 to 17-year-olds whose behaviour is out of control and a risk to their safety. Admission and release is by way of High Court order.