Strong leadership and resident independence at Leitrim centre highlighted in HIQA report

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published 27 inspection reports on designated centres for people with disabilities on August 7, including the Cherry Blossom Centre in Ballinamore, which received a glowing report.

The Cherry Blossom Centre, operated by The Rehab Group, is a supported accommodation facility designed to meet the needs of up to seven male and female residents over the age of 18 who have an intellectual disability. 

At the time of the unannounced inspection on May 12 this year, six people were living in the home.

The centre consists of two adjacent two-storey houses. Each resident has their own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and dining area, sitting room, utility space, staff office, and garden area. Staff are on duty both day and night to support the residents.

The inspection found that “safeguarding was taken seriously at this centre,” and noted strong leadership, while still promoting resident independence. 

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Residents were observed moving freely about the centre and making their own decisions about how to spend their day.

The inspector spoke with five of the six residents. One resident shared that they loved their home and described the staff as lovely. They said they had no worries, but if they ever did, they would speak with staff or call the person in charge on their mobile phone.

Residents enjoy taking the bus to run errands, listening to music of their choice, and maintaining a sense of independence.

The inspector found that the positive culture at the service was underpinned by a human rights-based and person-centred approach.

The provider was found to be aware of their obligations under relevant legislation and policies, and the person in charge demonstrated a proactive approach to embedding these into the day-to-day running of the service.

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Overall, the inspector concluded that this was a good service, anchored by the quality of the leadership team and the skills, experience, and consistency of the staff. 

The person in charge noted that several new staff members were set to join the team and would be supported through an induction programme. Refresher training is also provided for existing staff.

The report was highly positive, with the Cherry Blossom Centre receiving a score of ‘Compliant’ in all assessed regulations, including training and staff development, governance and management, communication, individual assessment and personal planning, positive behavioural support, protection, and residents’ rights.