Hiqa questions management of allegations at Ballydowd

A new inspection report into the country’s main special care centre for children has found that allegations against staff were not always managed appropriately, although, in general, conditions at Ballydowd appear to be improving.

The residential special care unit in Dublin is a secure facility for boys and girls aged 11-17 detained there under a High Court care order. The inspection report, published yesterday by the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa), found that Ballydowd met the required standard in 11 areas that were inspected and required improvement in 18 others, although, in many of those instances, good or improving practice was noted.

Hiqa identified one significant risk regarding the management of allegations against staff.