Two Waterford centres get 100% approval in Mental Health Commission inspections

The Mental Health Commission (MHC) has published inspection reports for two approved centres in Waterford with both achieving a 100% compliance rating.

The two centres in Waterford have retained 100% overall compliance with rules, regulations and codes of practice. It is the second year in-a-row that Grangemore Ward has achieved a 100% compliance rating, while it is the third consecutive year for Aidan’s Residential Healthcare Unit.

The Inspector of Mental Health Services, Dr Susan Finnerty, said: “Appropriate staffing is critical in providing care to patients as well as maintaining a safe environment for all those attending an approved centre. The Mental Health Commission continues to engage with the service to monitor compliance with staffing.”

The Chief Executive of the Mental Health Commission, Mr John Farrelly, referred to the positive trend of increasing compliance ratings being retained by approved centres. “Maintaining high levels in overall compliance provides clear evidence that regulation works by ensuring an increase in standards and quality of care for patients.”

Grangemore Ward is located on the grounds of St. Otteran’s Hospital in Waterford City. This approved centre is a large two-storey house comprised of 14 single bedrooms. At the time of the inspection, construction work was being carried out for an extension to one of the downstairs bedrooms.

Since the last inspection, an upgrade to the interior had been undertaken in the centre, which included new wardrobes and lockers, as well as decorative work of bedrooms. The residents also have access to two well-maintained gardens.

At the time of inspection, 11 residents were present in the centre. Overall, compliance remained at 100% for the second year in-a-row. The centre had no conditions attached and was compliant with all regulations.

Aidan’s Residential Healthcare Unit is situated in Waterford Residential Care Centre in Waterford City. It provides psychiatry of later life and rehabilitation services. This approved centre is a purpose-built modern facility with 20 registered beds, and at the time of inspection there were 16 residents present, which included 13 residents accommodated for longer than six months. 

Overall, compliance at the centre remained at 100% for the third consecutive year. The centre had no conditions attached and was compliant with all regulations.