Health watchdog closes down residential community for people with intellectual disabilities in Kilkenny
The Green Party is calling on HIQA to reconsider its decision to close down operations at Camphill residential units for people with intellectual disabilities in Callan and Ballytobin in County Kilkenny. The party claims that the health watchdog needs to consider carefully the ethos of person centred care at Camphill and how it differs from other models of care in the community.
Speaking following the closure local Green Party Councillor Malcolm Noonan said that the news was devastating for the whole community, residents, staff and families affected by the decision.
He said: “I have supported the work of Camphill for many years now because I believe they offer a wholesome, inclusive and participative experience unlike any other in the State and that outcomes for residents are really transformative in terms of quality of life.
“While HIQA are doing valuable work on behalf of the State in raising standards and highlighting deficiencies in services they may well have read this wrong because of the different and often innovative practices offered by Camphill.
“I would ask that HIQA sit down again Waltham management and staff at Camphill in Kilkenny and see where common ground can be found to ensure that this wonderful service continues to create a welcoming space for residents and their families.”
