Speech therapy caseload hits 106 in Limerick community

MORE than 100 children were either receiving, or awaiting speech and language therapy at a city health centre.

Figures released to Social Democrats councillor Elisa O’Donovan have shown there are 106 children as part of the total caseload at King’s Island Primary Care Centre.

She had asked for an update on the speech and language therapy services provided for children at that particular health centre, at the quarterly HSE’s regional health forum meeting.

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In a written answer from the HSE’s integrated healthcare manager, Maria Bridgeman, the City West councillor was told 48 children were awaiting assessment for speech and language therapy services as of May 27 last when the forum took place.
Some 43 children were still awaiting follow-up intervention.

Nine children are currently accessing support in speech and language from the health service.

And six youngsters on the waiting list are unable to receive support. This could be because they are medically unwell, awaiting a medical or surgical procedure, and it’s anticipated that the help will begin after this.

Cllr O’Donovan had raised concerns in the past about the lack of a speech and language therapist at King’s Island.

This position became vacant in January 2024.

However, Ms Bridgeman confirmed that the post had been filled at the end of April last.

She also outlined a number of measures which were put in place in the 15 months no therapist was in place.

Ms Bridgeman stated all urgent referrals were escalated and speech and language therapy supports were arranged.

“A level of service was provided for King’s Island caseload based on risk assessment until the post could be filled permanently,” she added.