No decision on funding for Inishowen mental health service
The funding would allow DMHS to transition Radharc na Sleibhte mental health residential and respite centre in Carndonagh into a recovery-focused crisis intervention or step-down facility.
No decision has yet been made on whether crucial funding for the reconfiguration of a mental health service in the Inishowen area will be approved this year.
It has been confirmed that Donegal Mental Health Services (DMHS) has applied for capital funding, but no decision has been given to the Donegal branch yet.
The funding would allow DMHS to transition Radharc na Sleibhte mental health residential and respite centre in Carndonagh into a recovery-focused crisis intervention or step-down facility.
At the latest Regional Health Forum West meeting, Sinn Féin Councillor Gerry McMonagle sought clarity on whether the multi-annual mental health capital plan for 2025 entailed funding to allow Donegal Mental Health Services to progress its need to transition Radharc na Sleibhte.
In response, Dermot Monaghan, Integrated Health Area Manager for Donegal, outlined that as per “National HSE agreed processes, a SHIF Alignment Form has been completed by Donegal Mental Health Management Team. This is an application to National Capital Estates to allocate the requested funding based on the identified need in Carndonagh.”
“Donegal Mental Health Services await the capital approval and continue to support the development of Mental Health Services in the Inishowen area.”
After months of uncertainty at the start of 2024, the HSE allayed fears 12 months ago that the facility was to close. Instead, they announced that a section of Radharc na Sleibhte will be reconfigured to provide a seven-day outreach service to support those who require it to remain in their own home and integrate with their local community.
A feasibility study was completed in December by the HSE to incorporate a 10-bed crisis/step-down and respite facility supported by 24-hour staff cover. The design team has also completed and presented the initial drawing of what the refurbished building will look like.
The timeline for the project is 18 months from the date of commencement. The start date will depend on the confirmation of the funding. As construction hasn't begun yet, it will be at least 2027 before the upgrades have taken place.