Severe Issues with Governance, Risk Management and Safeguarding highlighted in HIQA IPAS Inspections

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Introduction

HIQA published a further six inspection reports for International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) in July 2024. The reports highlight varying levels of non-compliance, but major non-compliances are identified in relation to governance, accountability and leadership, responsive workforce, contingency planning and emergency preparedness, accommodation, safeguarding and response to specialist needs. Some of the common high-risk issues related to ineffective risk management systems and safeguarding measures, a lack of auditing and quality assurance, lack of a dedicated reception officer and issues with Garda vetting of staff.

As an IPAS provider, it is imperative that you review the findings of the latest inspection reports and identify the learnings for your centre. In this article, we provide a summary of the findings under the related Theme of the National Standards for accommodation offered to people in the protection process (2019).


Summary of Major Issues Identified in IPAS Centres

THEME 1: GOVERNANCE, ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEADERSHIP


THEME 2: RESPONSIVE WORKFORCE


THEME 3: CONTINGENCY PLANNING AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS


THEME 4: ACCOMMODATION


THEME 5: FOOD, CATERING AND COOKING FACILITIES


THEME 6: PERSON CENTRED CARE AND SUPPORT


THEME 8: SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTION


THEME 9: HEALTH, WELLBEING AND DEVELOPMENT


THEME 10: IDENTIFICATION, ASSESSMENT AND RESPONSE TO SPECIAL NEEDS


Conclusion

The latest HIQA inspection reports for IPAS centres have identified persistent issues of inadequate governance, risk management, Garda vetting, safeguarding, quality assurance programmes, amongst others. These issues demand urgent attention.

Effective governance and accountability, staff training, robust risk management systems, and improved safeguarding measures are crucial to enhancing the quality of life and safety of residents. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from service providers, to implement and monitor corrective actions. Ensuring compliance with national standards and fostering a culture of continuous improvement is vital to transform your IPAS centre into a safe, dignified, and supportive environment for all residents.

To address these deficits, services can leverage HCI’s expertise in quality, safety and regulatory compliance. HCI stands at the forefront, providing essential support to IPAS centres. We provide comprehensive support in developing robust Quality and Safety Management Systems. We conduct quality of care audits, develop essential policies and procedures, provide education and training and develop comprehensive risk management programmes. Partnering with HCI ensures your quality assurance programme is strengthened, key areas of concern are addressed, and residents are safeguarded while achieving full regulatory compliance.

For more information on how HCI can help you achieve regulatory compliance and elevate your service standards, please contact us at info@hci.care or call 01 629 2559.

Contact Us

For more information contact info@hci.care or Phone +353 (0)1 6292559.

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