Recent HIQAA report sees a great review for Longford's Esker Gardens

A county Longford care service has received glowing praise following a recent unannounced HIQA inspection.

The inspection report found that Esker Gardens, which can accommodate up to four residents and provides long term care, 24-hour care, was 'Compliant' or 'Substantially compliant' in all 13 regulatory areas.Esker Gardens is designed for up to four residents and provides care for clients with physical, neurological and sensory impairments.

The service, which is located on the outskirts of Ballinalee, is run by Orchard Care, a private company that renders support to children and adults with significant and complex needs.

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HIQA (Health Information and Quality Authority) inspectors spoke to staff, residents and family members on the day.

The report stated that residents, who were supported to maintain their independence and make choices as individuals, lived a meaningful and comfortable life.

The facility was adjudged to be substantially compliant in three areas, which included 'Staffing', 'Medicines and pharmaceutical services', and 'Fire precautions', during an unannounced HIQA inspection on November 19, 2024.

In relation to staffing, Esker Gardens was listed as doing so to a very high standard.

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'There was a consistent staff team who were known to the residents and actual staffing roster was maintained as required by the regulations.

The report said 'improvements' were required when it came to the management of medication, and in particular in the training of staff members.

The report found only four staff members had received training in the safe administration of medications at some point, including three competency assessments.

The remainder of the staff team had only completed an hour long on-line course called 'management of medication," the report outlined.

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In relation to fire safety the report outlined the provider had put in place structures and processes to ensure fire safety, which included self-closing fire doors throughout the centre.

Esker Gardens was found to be compliant in 10 regulatory areas which included, 'Persons in charge', 'Training and staff development', 'Governance and management', 'Admissions and contract for the provision of services', 'Notification of incidents', 'Complaints procedure', 'Individual assessment and personal plan', 'Health care', 'Protection', and 'Residents' rights'.