Western Care Association Annual Report 2015
1 Table of Contents
Table of Contents ...... 01 Photo of Board of Directors 2014/2015...... 01 Chairperson’s Report ...... 02 Executive Director’s Report...... 03 Organisation Report...... 03-07 Services Report ...... 08-15 Records Management/Referrals to Western Care...... 16 Notifications to HIQA/Complaints...... 17 Volunteering in Western Care Association...... 18-19 Governance/Board Attendance/General Information...... 20 Development & Fundraising Report...... 21 Human Resources Report...... 22 Evaluation & Training Report...... 23-25 Acknowledgements...... 26
Board of Directors 2014/2015
Back Row L to R: Chris Pratt, Annette Dillon, Bernard O’Regan, Ed Rose, Mary Kelly, Anthony McCormack Front Row L to R: Mary Daly, Mary Hegarty, Helen McHugh, Noelle Gallagher, Gerardine Lennon Unavoidably absent: Philip McKiernan, Caroline Gordon
1 Chairperson’s Report
This is my final opportunity as Chairperson to write directly to you as members and as Western Care Association Annual Report readers. I have been Chairperson for the last 3 years and for those of you who don’t know me, I have 3 children, 2 of whom have special needs and are involved with Western Care so I have a keen interest in the running of it. It has truly been a privilege to have had the opportunity to work closely with such a vibrant workforce.
I want to welcome you all to the Annual Report, new readers and a particular welcome to all those who have been supporting us for 50 years!! It’s a huge milestone for Western Care to be celebrating our 50th anniversary and thanks to each and every one of you as without your support, Western Care would not be the organisation it is today.
We sincerely value the assistance given through funding and other support functions by the Health Service Executive and non-statutory bodies. This support is essential for us to sustain services and to meet the changing needs of the people we support.
I think everyone would acknowledge that the last few years have been a difficult period economically and I wish to thank Western Care Staff that have been relentless in response to the need to obtain value for money while ensuring high quality services. Thank you for your patience, commitment and hard work in meeting all challenges / opportunities head-on.
I would like to genuinely thank each and every one of you, the general public, for the huge contribution you continue to make to the success of Western Care. To continue to harness this power and create impact, it is important that we remain focussed on connecting with one another and building bridges across our community. We can do this by sharing best practices, collaborating across functions, our houses and centres and actively engaging with our families, colleagues and our community. We are very lucky to have such a strong community connection and it is very positive and encouraging to witness the strong tradition of fundraising and of people volunteering their time to support service users to live fulfilled lives.
There has been, quite rightly, an increased focus on governance and quality & standards. I believe they have made us a more resilient organisation. Our website includes “Commitment to Standards in Fundraising Practice”, “Donor Charter” & “Annual reports”, we want to ensure a high level of accountability and transparency for all money raised from the public. All documents can be viewed on www.westerncare.com.
I want to acknowledge and thank the Board of Directors & Bernard O’Regan (CEO) who have worked very hard over the last year for their commitment & time.
We look forward to 2016 / 2017, knowing there are lots of changes ahead but as with all changes we will adapt our business model to ensure the survival of our services. We will turn them into opportunities for Western Care. By working together, we can continue to ensure, with a collaborative attitude between service users, members, volunteers and staff that we accommodate service users’ needs and enhance the life of all service users and their families.
Helen McHugh, Chairperson
2 Executive Director’s Report Organisation Report
2015 was a demanding Purpose and busy year for the Western Care Association is a not for profit Association, reflected in the organisation, established in 1966, to provide Annual Report for the year supports and services to children and adults with in which you will see the intellectual disabilities and/or autism, and their range of work and projects families, in Mayo. described. This is a time of unprecedented change Main Activities In doing its work, it provides a wide range of services for organisations providing and supports across the county. In general, supports services, influenced by and services are provided based on the need of the an economic downturn, person for support, recognising that the primary increased needs for supports people receive are from their families and services and supports, the friends. The supports provided by Western Care are need to reconfigure services to ensure best value, intended to complement these natural supports. consistency with emerging national policy and the challenges of meeting a new regulatory environment. These services include: Western Care is engaging with these and is trying to • supports for a variety and range of living options hold true to its mission in the face of this changing • day service supports and demanding environment. • respite supports • Personal assistant and family supports 50 years is an extraordinary milestone for Western • Home-sharing supports Care. Building on the vision of its founders, it • Therapies and multi-disciplinary supports continues to provide services and supports to people • Transport services with intellectual disabilities and/or autism and their The provision of services is supported by a range of families. It continues to be innovative. It continues organisation supports, which have specific functions to develop a range of supports that meet people’s related to their area of responsibility to ensure the needs. However, we continue to fall short of meeting organisation realises its mission, including: all of the needs that we should be responding to • Finance and it is essential that we use this anniversary year • Human resources to refocus by reviewing our mission and strategy to • Evaluation and Training shape the future of the organisation in support of • Administration people, using resources to maximum effect. • Maintenance
Western Care is founded on people and, especially Aims this year, I want to acknowledge and thank people The Association has as its primary aim that children we serve and their families, staff, volunteers and the and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or community. Each person plays their own role in autism in Co. Mayo are supported to full citizenship making the organisation what it is and we are truly in their own communities. It provides services fortunate to have so many committed and talented and supports towards this aim, using resources people as part of our Association. provided to it by the State through grants, primarily from the HSE, and some fundraised monies. It also seeks to harness community involvement through volunteers, community partnerships and coalitions Bernard O’Regan, to realise its mission. Executive Director. Strategy Each person supported by the organisation is an individual, with their own hopes, dreams,aspirations, needs and circumstance. There is no “one size
3 Organisation Report
fits all” solution to meeting people’s needs for from people served and their families about how supports. Therefore, the organisation’s strategy life is for people. Despite all the cutbacks and and organisation plans are developed to ensure an disincentives we have pulled through a very difficult individual response to each person, based on an period by beginning to re-design our service model individual planning process, that is developed with to more effectively support the people who are in the person in conjunction with family and people the greatest distress and we have evidence that involved in the life of the person. shows it is effective.
The organisation’s plans are intended to support this Major Activities in 2015 while also ensuring the Association meets its legal, There were a number of significant actions in 2015 financial, contractual and regulatory obligations. which have been important in achieving the aims Broadly, the organisation plan covers areas such as: of the Association. Elsewhere in the report you will • Governance and management see references and more detail on some of these but overall they include: • Services • We provided the following services: • Human Resources, Health and Safety and Transport • Residential • Quality and Training • Day Services • Finance • Respite Nights • Information TechnologyINTELLECTUAL DISABILITY DIAGNOSIS • Therapies • Buildings and Maintenance • Transport • PA Hours • Homesharing
INTELLECTUAL INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY DISABILITY DIAGNOSIS DIAGNOSIS 20%
20% 20%
43% 43% 43% Autistic Spectrum Disorder Autistic Spectrum Autistic Disorder Spectrum Disorder Down Down Syndrome SyndromeDown Syndrome General General Learning/Global/Signficant General Learning/Global/Signficant Learning/Global/Signficant Dev. Delay Dev. Delay Dev. Delay Other Other 22% 22% Other 22%
15% 15%
15% Progress • Establishment of the Quality and Safety How do we know we are being successful in Committee and the Human Resources meeting our goals? It is a challenge in human Committee of the Board of Directors services. Providing an agreed amount of respite • Implementation of the Service Agreement signed can be one measure but it does not describe how with the HSE which specifies the funding that respite has met the needs of people who have provided to the Association and the services to used the service. Quantity and quality do not, as we be provided with it on behalf of the HSE know, always equate to each other. Our measures • Registration with the Housing Regulator for success therefore need to cover a wide range • Development of management structures of data, which then need to be considered at both Regional Service Manager and collectively. This includes outcomes information Frontline management to bring more coherence for people supported, complaints information, risk to ensure effective management of the register information, Key Performance Indicator organisation data, financial data and anecdotal information • Secured adequate funding to ensure a close
4 Organisation Report
to breakeven position at year end, including • Increased the use of assistive technologies for funding for some additional services in communication, independent living and response to emergencies and school leavers responses to medical needs e.g. epilepsy • Achieved HIQA registration of 23 out of 31 • Restructured the closure times for day services designated centres for residential services in response to feedback from families that a and significant progress towards the registration whole month closure was too long. of the remaining services • Engaged through the National Federation • Restructured the Behaviour Support Service for of Voluntary Bodies on the Next Steps project to adults to ensure a better service is available promote innovation in service delivery, focussing based on need in 2015 in supporting a number of people to • Explored the use of Rapid Prompting Method for some people with autism in conjunction with move from group home living to Self-directed families supported living • Adopted the National Policy for Safeguarding • Continued recruitment and training of staff to Vulnerable Adults and supported a number of ensure we have a workforce capable of proving staff to attend training to ensure we are able to the necessary supports and services implement the policy • Supported staff to register with CORU, including • Further developed bespoke support Social Workers, Speech and Language Therapists, arrangements to support people to Self-Directed and Occupational Therapists Living • Attended and engaged in the National • Completed HSE self-assessment on New summits organised by the HSE with respect to Directions safeguarding and service quality
Total on Database = 1264 • Where possible, undertook significant maintenance and upgrading work facilities with a particular emphasis on residential services to
659 ensure compliance with HIQA regulations 700
600 • Completed work to establish a new service at
452 500 Thomas Street in Castlebar 400 • Facilitated the development of a range of 300
153 200 supports for school leavers in 2015 100 • Introduced a system for assuring the basic 0 Lifestage 0-‐6 Lifestage 6-‐18 Lifestage 18+ assurance requirements in day services and further enhanced and developed the system for • Expanded the delivery of Early Bird and Hannan residential services training to families of children with autism • Completed at least two unannounced • Commenced the roll-out of online reporting on inspections in each residential and respite incidents to minimise bureaucracy. service by senior management following which • Supported a number of adults using children’s reports and action plans have been developed respite services to transition to adult services and are being implemented • Undertook substantial work with adults with • Substantially implemented the actions agreed swallowing difficulties to ensure they had with HIQA following their inspections and reports an assessment and a plan for modified diets and • Revised the system of working for the Rights feeding where required, supported Review Committee in response to the level of by the Speech and Language Therapy Department referrals to the Committee • Maintained screening for dementia and • Upgraded the servers to ensure it had the engaged with other organisations to commence capacity to meet our information technology the development of an inter-agency plan for needs supporting people with dementia within the region
5 OrganisationService User StatisticsReport
Social Investment provided, they are not working well enough for We have worked with a number of community and people. Some of the inter-agency working that is voluntary sector organisations to partner in developing required needs further development and, while community initiatives that will enhance the lives of all work is being done to address this, it remains a community members, including people with disabilities. challenge. These have included: • Membership of the Board of a development Company Financial review • A range of SICAP projects The financial climate throughout 2015 was • Partnership with the Galway Mayo Institute of extremely challenging for the Association. The Technology cumulative effect of responding to emergencies, • Partnering with the Volunteer Centre meeting the cost implications of registering • Partnering with the various arts programmes and services with HIQA and the roll-forward effect of offices, especially in Ballina, Castlebar, Ballinrobe and deficits from previous years meant that for much Westport of the year a substantial deficit at year end was projected. There were constant engagements Volunteers with the HSE to secure funding and with the The voluntary ethos of the organisation is highly valued. Association’s bank to ensure the cash available The Association was founded on the commitment of to the Association to maintain its day to day volunteers and this voluntary contribution continues business were in place. At year end, the HSE to be to the fore of the organisation. It is reflected confirmed an additional allocation of €1 million in the membership of the Board of Directors and to the Association. its committees, on the Rights Review Committee, in fundraising and through the time that individual This additional funding has been rolled forward to volunteers commit to be with people, supporting them 2016 which puts the Association in an improved to participate in a range of activities that are important for them but fundamentally developing relationships financial position. that experience has demonstrated are longstanding and important in the lives of people we serve. Western Care Association wishes to gratefully acknowledge receipt of a grant of €20,000 from the Department of Health of National Lottery Breakdown by GenderGender Funds towards the purchase of a bus for Ballyhaunis Services.
Structure, Governance and Management 900 800 Some changes in the 700 organisation’s structures 600 500 were introduced in 2015 802 400 462 300 at both Regional Service 200 Manager and frontline 100 0 manager level. These have Male Female been important elements of a re-structuring to ensure the effective governance Achievements and Performance and leadership of services. However, the Board Notwithstanding the significant activity and work in continues to have concerns about the current 2015, there remains much to do. Many people continue structure and has identified this area as a major to have needs for support that are not being met. In priority for 2016. some instances, even with services and supports being
6 Organisation Report
BreakdownPhysical of Physical and/or and/or Sensory Sensory Disability Disability
2% 6%
12%
36% 2% Physical Hearing/Deafness Visual Physical and Hearing/Deafness Physical and Visual Hearing/Deafness and Visual Physical, Hearing/Deafness and Visual
25%
17%
Rights Review Committee The RRC works to promote and protect the rights of people using 2015/2016 Western Care Association services through scrutiny, advice and guidance and to promote positive practices that assert the rights of Mr. Chris Pratt (Chairperson) people using services. In the conduct of its work, the Committee Mr. Roger Philbin will make formal recommendations, both for the individual and for Mr. Pádraig Cunnane the organisation. In 2015, the committee reviewed the rights of 46 Ms. Joan Fitzgerald Ms. Patricia Flatley individuals issuing recommendations in each case. It also made two Ms. Jayne Gaffney organisational recommendations. These were firstly, in relation to Mr. Jarlath Walsh enhancing the support for people using services in the use of electronic Ms. Connie O’Regan communication supports and secondly, with regard to the need to Mr. Michael Kneafsey develop an anti-bullying strategy for people attending services. Mr. Paul Cecchetti
7 Services Report
A. North Area Employment There has been an increase in the number of The key Areas of Achievement in the adult services individuals across day services who have gained in North Mayo were: meaningful employment.
Community Connections Project- GENIO Strong links have been built with local businesses in • Three people are in paid employment in the local Crossmolina, Belmullet and Ballina, which have area earning above the minimum wage led the way to more opportunities for people who • All people are in Adult Education or attending attend day services that are looking for paid work. other courses • One service user has moved in to his own home Over the next year, the focus will be: to live independently • Increasing further work opportunities for people • Additional skills learned – Road Safety, cooking who want to work and baking, play the guitar, Money management, • Increasing opportunities for people to use Stress management & Mindfulness, Numeracy resources in their local community and Literacy, Social Roles in local town, Men’s • Developing a joint initiative with Adult Education shed amongst others to fill the gaps that currently prevent people from • A number of people have significantly reduced accessing courses and receive qualifications their time spent in Day Centres • Increase skills based learning • Increase opportunity for social roles We made a submission for funding to continue to • Continue to work towards maintaining HIQA develop this project further and open it up to others Standards and Regulations. Sourcing funding to who wish to start a transition from Day services and complete works required on premises to keep increase their use of local community resources. them to the standards required by HIQA • Re-develop a number of residential services to School Leavers 2015 ensure changing needs of residents are met We developed a hub in Crossmolina for school • Complete the Sensory Garden Project in leavers who left school in 2015. This is in line with Crossmolina in partnership with Community the New Directions Policy for Day Services and allows groups for a more focused support, connecting strongly to community resources. Breakdown of Support Categories
Silent Moves The Silent Moves film was released to great accolade in late 2014 and over the course of 2015 the cast and crew were invited to a number of film and Arts festivals nationally. The cast consisted of a number of actors who attend day services in Ballina and their talent and expertise has been recognised nationally.
Further work is being done at present to source further funding to do another joint Arts Project with the local Arts Theatre.
8 Services Report
B. Central Area living in Castlebar. The supports for people in these arrangements were funded by the HSE. Each one In the Central Area, which comprises services in has been developed in conjunction with the person’s Castlebar and Foxford, there are: family and staff who know the person well, with the • 15 services users in 5 residential services person at the centre. Each person has their own • 4 service users in self-directed supported tenancy and is living in their own home, free to live living arrangements as they choose, with the supports they need. • 27 service users who avail of respite • 47 service users who receive day services. Foxford Residential Services In April 2015, the 3 services users who were residing School Leavers at St Eithne’s in Foxford moved to their new house There were 7 school leavers in the Central Area in located at The Acres in Foxford. Their new home 2015. This required a significant focus as the needs offers each person greater opportunities for personal of each person had to be considered individually, space and a better quality of life. This was a very leading to a range of service developments. This successful move for these individuals. The building at continues to be an area of focus as we try to develop St Eithne’s continues to be used for day services and supports for a number of people who need very is currently being renovated and will be completed individualised, bespoke support arrangements. in 2016. Innovation Vocational Training Centre, Castlebar This year one service user was successfully supported In November, funding from SICAP and South West to leave the group home to move to a home of his own Development Company enabled service users from which ensures that he has a supported, self-directed the VTC and other services in Castlebar to develop a living arrangement, with his own individualised Student Mentor Project with Galway & Mayo Institute tenancy and support arrangement. This has worked of Technology (GMIT). Student Mentors enabled very well for him. service users to participate in courses and activities that included computer courses, out-door pursuits, Other Individualised Tenancy and Support basketball, chess as well as providing numerous Arrangements social opportunities. This initiative was a tremendous This year 3 other services users successfully success and will be further developed in 2016. transitioned from home to self-directed supported
NumberReferrals, of Referrals, Discharges Discharges and and Transfers. Transfers
120
100
80 105
60
40
20 18 3 0 Referrals Discharges Transfers
9 Services Report
C. Occupational Therapy (OT) position. Often children with sensory processing Early Intervention Service for difficulties can present specific behaviours i.e. Children with Autism 0 – 6years excessive seeking or avoidance of different forms of input. This can make them very fearful, unsettled, Occupational therapy for children on the Autism avoidant or conversely very active, seeming to crave Spectrum covers three main areas: touch, movement, or deep pressure.
Everyday Living Skills: Helping the child to become as This service is provided by a 0.5 post. It is currently independent as possible at home with their feeding, consultation and advice based. It usually comprises toileting and dressing. Getting the child ready for of consultation with parents and teachers and primary school, focusing on skills such as pre-writing provision of education or home programme to skills and ball sports. help them manage their child’s needs in their daily environment. The Association acknowledges the Motor Skill Development: breaking down the children’s limitations of this service and has highlighted the motor skills, looking at fine motor (hand skills), need for further funding to the HSE. gross motor (balance skills), bilateral integration (use of the two sides of the body together), hand Recent developments in the service include the eye co-ordination, motor planning, strength and co- provision of parent sensory education groups for ordination. Identifying problem areas and working families to educate them on their child’s need and with the family and other support systems currently how to manage them in a proactive manner at in place to help further develop these skills. home. The OT service also provides consultation session Sensory Processing: looking at how the child processes for Autism Resource Workers involved with families information from their senses to create a response: at a ground level. sight, smell, taste, touch, sound, movement and body
Breakdown of people supported and on waiting list for day, residential, respiteDay, and Residential home sharing and services Respite
248 140 213 48
Waiting Receiving
325 153 167 30
Day Residential Respite Home Sharing
10 Services Report
D. East Area Drama There are 150 people supported in the East area, 59 In November funding from SICAP enabled WCA in day services, 40 in residential and 27 in respite. with South West Development Company to work In addition 24 individuals who do not receive direct together with a group of service users and staff services are supported in the area by multidisciplinary from Ballyhaunis Day Services and Primrose Hill to services as needed. stage a short production of Romeo and Juliet in the Town Hall Theatre, Claremorris. Residential Services This event was enjoyed by everyone and it is hoped There are currently 7 HIQA designated Centres in the that similar projects will take place again in future. East Area and all but one are now registered. Two other designated centres moved to the Central School leavers Area in August 2015. There has been one school leaver move to the area this year attending the day services in Kiltimagh. Self-Directed Supported Living Two people moved into their own homes from Development and focus for 2016 sharing with others in 2015. • HIQA The main focus for the residential services Another person moved from a group home to share in the East for 2016 continues to be HIQA to with another person in a private rental arrangement get the final service registered and to ensure all those registered continue to meet the standards required. Respite • Changing needs of individuals – we continue Respite continues to look at other living options for to focus on supporting individuals as their needs people and have supported another person this year change to move into a home share living option. This has • Supporting the implementation of New enabled individuals who have been in children’s Directions for day respite service transition to adult respite services. This will continue to be a focus for 2016.
In addition another individual is supported from the respite service to continue to live in their own home.
Claremorris Residential Service St. Rita’s developed a new sensory garden through working in partnership with a number of community groups and this was officially opened in Sensory Garden July by Mrs. Sabina Higgins – President Higgins’ wife. This garden has been a huge asset to those living in St. Rita’s and it is hoped that the community will be also able to enjoy it.
11 Services Report
E. Speech and Language Therapy 2015 Team Early Years, increased the amount of parental training through such courses as:- The Speech and Language Therapy Department in Western Care Association provides a wide range of • “Communication Before Words” services to children and adults with disability and • “Little Lámh” autism, which includes:- • “Sing and Sign”, • Assessment, diagnosis and intervention with • Hanen –“ IT TAKES 2 TO TALK” regard to communication difficulties. • Hanen: - “MORE THAN WORDS” • Provision of safe swallowing clinics as members of the Mayo Early Intervention Services. Similarly, in adult services, 150 staff received • Dysphagia services for adults, training with regard to safe practice in Feeding, • Parent training Eating and Drinking and 95 service users were • Staff training assessed in respect to safe feeding, eating and • Development of accessible information for service users drinking and care plans provided.
The Department at the close of 2015 had: The Speech and Language Therapy Department • 2.4 Speech and Language Therapists assigned (adult services) continues to work with other to the Mayo Early Intervention Services, which disciplines to provide accessible information for provides services to children with complex needs service users. in collaboration with HSE and Enable therapists. Work continued through the department to • 1 Speech and Language Therapist assigned to the autism team (early years) establish pathways of care. • 1.5 Speech and Language Therapists allocated to adult services A focus group on Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) across the lifespan, in In 2015 Western Care Speech and Language collaboration with the HSE was established in Therapists as part of the Mayo Early Intervention 2015 and work is presently ongoing. Service and the therapist assigned to The Autism
Breakdown by Service Area Service Area
450 410 400
350
300
250
196 200 211
150 150 173
100
50 42 63 0 19 Autism Children’s (Children) Central Area Service East Area IS Area North Area Social Work Dept. West Area
12 Services Report
F. Children’s Services these young people to move to adult respite, but is subject to WCA securing additional funding. The Key areas of achievement in children’s services in 2015 were: The profile of the children using this service has changed over the last year and necessitates the • Increase in Outreach respite services, so that need for a high level of support to meet their now 6 children are availing of this through Teach personal care needs and a high level of training for Na HOige. This includes an overnight home based staff in a variety of health related procedures. Once respite service for 2 children. the adults presently using the service have moved on, • Introduction and implementation of new a major challenge in responding to the waiting list will Individual Planning system across be to facilitate compatibility and manage risk as part Children’s Respite Services to cover of organising respite, given the very differing needs of comprehensive assessment of needs regarding all children using the service and waitlisted for same. areas and inform priorities. There has and continues to be a demand and need • On going Child/Parent/staff meetings in each for increased respite for the very complex children respite service - particular focus on Children’s using both respite services. As these children move Rights, with a speaker from EPIC. towards adulthood, it is essential that their unique • Increased community connections as a result of individual needs are fully considered and planned new IP and links with local groups/community for in preparation for their move to adult services • 3 adults have moved from St Stephens Children’s with regard to respite. The Organisation needs respite in the last year to more appropriate adult/ to ensure that it implements a comprehensive individualised services planning process, and makes timely and robust • On going work to plan for, maintain and enhance representations for funding to develop adult the services to comply with the standards services that will be able to respond to the complex, required by HIQA high support needs that these children have. The • Actions that have led to increased responsiveness need for regular respite for their families cannot be to diversity i.e. cultural needs underestimated and there needs to be a continuum of support as the children reach 18. As a result of HIQA Registration Inspection and environmental limitations, Teach Na HOige now only A working group has been formed to assess caters for children who are not reliant on the use of a challenges with regard to providing respite to wheelchair for mobility purposes. This has impacted children with very complex needs going forward, and on two children and means we are presently unable will arrive at some recommendations within the next to respond to the waiting list as those listed for a service few months for the Organisation’s consideration. are wheelchair users and in general have high needs in the area of personal and health care. A process is Staff from both services has availed of WCA being explored to secure appropriate, fully wheelchair mandatory training, service specific training and also accessible premises for this service in the future. external courses such as “end of life care”, “Tac Pac – sensory approach” training, and ISL training. One young lady will shortly be moving into an individualised service and the respite service has and Each service has an Annual report which outlines is involved in facilitating this process to endeavour to goals for the service for the year. These are being be responsive to her unique needs. actively pursued and are underpinned by improving service quality, enhanc ng opportunities for service St Stephens continues to provide a service to both adults users and investing in staff to support and develop and children. Transition planning is at various stages for their competence.
13 Services Report
G. Social Work provision we undertook a recruitment to ensure the continuity in the lives of the service users we serve The new National Safeguarding Policy was introduced and to try and respond to priority demands. in late 2014 and a particular emphasis was placed on the work of Western Care Association Social Work The Community Facilitation service completed its Department throughout 2015 ensuring that we were journey to ensure an individualised response in compliant and consistent with the expectations of the area of service support, reflecting the needs this Policy and that key staff in the Department were of each individual and how they can be discreetly trained up in the area of responding to concerns, supported to live successful and enriching lives in expectations of preliminary screening including an the community. The emphasis here was particularly interim safeguarding plan and the requirement for a on educational opportunities, social roles, and a final safeguarding plan that would ensure the overall review of some living options for individuals. wellbeing and protection of the individual. The Social Work Department particularly focused on A Home Share Assessment and procedure was put the areas of personal assistants, school age supports, in place reflecting the importance of this service and and early childhood supports to endeavour to put the need for a more in depth and robust assessment in place meaningful relief, targeted breaks and process. In an effort to respond to those on the essential interventions in response to identified home share waiting list and to replace families needs. and individuals who had resigned from this service
Breakdown by Disability Intellectual Disability
400
350
300
250
200 Axis Title Axis
150
100
50
0 Unverified level of Average Range Borderline Mild learning Moderate learning Severe learning Profound learning disability disability disability disability disability
14 Services Report
H. West Area The Luisne Art Project supported by Mayo County Council and Western Care Association completed a In 2015 the West Area bade farewell to a number joint project with Scannán Film Company, Ballina of Services who moved under the management of making a short film on pieces of work they had the Central Area. These services were The V.T.C day completed. Luisne Art Group are currently exhibiting service on John Moore Road, 98 Aglish Respite in The Custom House, Westport and have a further Service, St Hubert’s Day Service, and Garryduff Drive exhibition planned for Turlough House later in 2016 Residential Services. Newport’s Little Library. HIQA registration From watching an episode of Nationwide on In 2015 two of the four designated services in the R.T.E 1 a seed was sown for one of the staff in Area, have been successfully registered with HIQA. Newport Resource Centre who with the support of In 2016 we continue to work towards achieving colleagues, people using the service, their families registration with HIQA for the remaining two services. and the local Rural Social Scheme has developed This will complete the registration process for all the a Little Garden Library in Newport for the use of designated centres in the area. the wider community. Events have been hosted at the library and attended by children from the local Art Projects Primary schools. Carrowbeg Enterprises, Westport continue their collaborative working relationship with The Custom The West Area continues to provide a variety of House, Art Centre, The Quay Westport. Over 2015 the supports to 173 adults. In the last year school 7 participants worked on a number of art mediums leavers have been supported to transition from creating works that were exhibited at the Custom school to adult supports. One individual who was House. This project continues in 2016. sourcing a new living arrangement got to move into a home of his choosing in 2015.
Number availingMultidisciplinary of multidisciplinary Supports. supports
600
500
400
300 Receiving Waiting
200
100
0 Psychology: Speech & Assistive Social Work: Physiotherapy: Occupational Behavioural Language: Technology: Therapy: Support Specialists:
15 Records Management
In order for Western Care Association to plan for Can I appeal a decision? services effectively, to plan for future services and Yes. If you are not satisfied with the decision made to ensure that a record of services provided is you can seek an internal review of the decision maintained, we gather and hold information on each which is a complete and new review of your request person/family using services. Information is also by someone more senior. If following this you are gathered and maintained in relation to staff. The still not satisfied you can appeal this decision to the organisation will always ensure that the Records Office of the Information Commissioner. Management System maintains the balance between confidentiality and the obligations of the organisation How do I make an FOI request? in relation to the availability of information to the Request must be in writing to the FOI Body that person using services, their families and staff who holds the records. Requests can also be made by require access to information in order to do their email. work. When you make a request you must: • Make a request in writing What is Freedom of Information? • Address the request to the Freedom of The Freedom of Information Act 2014 gives you the Information Officer, Western Care Association, right to access records held by FOI bodies. FOI bodies John Moore Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. must give you an explanation if you are not given • State that the request is being made under the what you asked for and the decision must normally Freedom of Information Act 2014. be made within 4 weeks. • Give sufficient particulars to enable the record to be identified. If relating to a Service user/ What can I ask for? or member of staff, please give full name, date You can ask for any of the following. of birth, current and previous addresses, etc. • Any records relating to you personally, whenever • When you are seeking information which is created personal, you will be required to supply the • All other records created after the effective date appropriate identification as required by the decision maker. Do I have to pay for getting information under FOI? When the request is for personal information there Log of FOI Requests are no charges unless there are a significant number In the course of 2015, a total of 5 FOI requests were of records. received and processed by the organisation. These requests related to personal information
Referrals to Western Care Association
In the course of 2015, a total of 105 referrals for services were accepted by the organisation. These are broken down into the following services:
Service Number Autism – Early Intervention 35 Autism – School Age 35 Children’s Services 23 Adult Services 12
16 Notifications to HIQA
Western Care Association must ensure that that the statistical information on complaints to them on Health Information & Quality Authority is formally a bi-annual basis. This information includes the notified when certain events or incidents take place numbers of complaints received, the categories – these are known as ‘notifiable events’. Depending under which complaints were made and whether on the nature of the incident, event or change, we time limits on addressing these were met. must notify HIQA ‘within three working days’, ‘at the end of each quarter’, ‘on a six-monthly basis’ and in In the course of 2015, a total of 76 complaints were response to proposed changes within the Designated received by the Association. Fifty three of these were Centre. dealt with informally *. Twenty two complaints were dealt with formally and 1 complaint was withdrawn. The timescales for notifying HIQA of the different Following investigation of the formal complaints, 13 types of incidents that occur in designated centres complaints were upheld, 1 was not upheld and 3 vary depending on the nature of the incident being were inconclusive. Five formal complaints were still notified. ongoing at the end of 2015.
In the course of 2015, a total number of 1,479 The nature of the complaints received fell notifications were submitted to HIQA. They fell under under the categories of Safe and Effective Care, a number of categories which are outlined below: Communication and Information, Access, Dignity and Respect, Accountability and Privacy Type of Notifications Number 3 day notifications 73 How to make a complaint Complaints can be made either verbally or in Follow up Reports 63 writing, via email or fax or by using the Western Statutory Notifications 25 Care Association Complaints Register. Any person/ Quarterly Notifications 1,318 family that is being provided with, has been provided with or is seeking to be provided with services by Western Care Association can make a complaint. If Complaints a person is unable to make a complaint due to age illness or disability, the complaint can be made on their behalf, with their permission. Western Care Association is committed to providing a quality service for service users and their families. A complaint can be made to any member of Western Complaints are regarded as an important source of Care Association staff, who will either endeavour to information for improving services. Complaints data resolve it or will direct it to the Complaints Officer. is analysed on a bi-annual basis and is reviewed The Western Care Association Complaints procedure, by Western Care Association’s Board of Directors Complaints Register and list of Complaints Officers and Leadership Team. Also, under our Service are available on the Western Care Association Arrangement with the HSE, we are required to submit website: www.westerncare.com
Complaints should be addressed to: Contact details for Confidential Recipient Complaints Administrator Ms. Leigh Gath John Moore Road Confidential Recipient Castlebar for Vulnerable Persons Co. Mayo Training Services Centre Tel: 094 9025133 Dooradoyle, Limerick Email: [email protected] Co. Limerick Tel: Lo Call 1890 100 014 or Mobile 087 6657 269 E-mail: [email protected]
17 Volunteering in Western Care Association
Volunteerism has been at the very core of Western Care’s ethos from the very beginning of the organisation. For 50 years now volunteers have been giving their time to the organisation in a variety of roles. This includes fundraisers, door to door collectors, branch activity, committee members and volunteers working directly with people in our services. Over the last number of years we have been developing new Volunteer opportunities to encourage more people to connect directly with people in services. This enables people to spend more time in their communities doing activities that they enjoy. It also builds new relationships and opens up a network of new people to engage with.
There are currently 170 volunteers approximately volunteering with people across the county on a weekly basis. This greatly enhances the opportunities available to people. We are very grateful to all our volunteers for their time and commitment that they have given. Some people have been doing this work for a very long time. Here are just a few of their stories:
Tom Regan & Paul Garvey Tom Regan has been volunteering with Paul Garvey for over 10 years. Tom comes in to the VTC in Castlebar every Friday to meet with Paul. From there they head up town to do different things, like lunch, bowling and walks.
Séan Kirrane & Ian Kennedy Séan Kirrane has been volunteering with Ian Kennedy for 5 years. Séan meets with Ian on Fridays to go out to lunch. Ian enjoys trying different places to eat in Castlebar and he also enjoys going to the Church with Séan.
18 Volunteering in Western Care Association
Eileen Culliney & Jerome Murphy Eileen Culliney has been volunteering in Ballyhaunis for 8 years with Jerome Murphy. They share an interest in plants and gardening and Eileen has been supporting Jerome to develop this hobby.
Angela Parsons with Caroline Walsh enjoying a hand massage Angela has been volunteering at Ridgepool Training Centre since 2007. She is a Beautician and Reflexologist. She comes to the Ridgepool every Monday for to share her skills with a number of people there. People get to enjoy reflexology, hand massage, manicures and make up application. Angela provides a valuable service and friendship to people through volunteering.
Thank you once again to all our Volunteers for your ongoing support. If you would like any further information on Volunteering, contact Noreen McGarry on [email protected] or see our website www.westerncare.com
19 Governance
It is essential that organisations such as Western Care Association do everything in their power to maintain the trustGovernance of the community, of the people who use its services, of the government and its agencies. In order to reassure the public, the Board has agreed to undertake the following: It is essential that organisations such as Western Care Association do everything in their power to • Themaintain publication the trust of of all the senior community, manager of the salaries people in who the use2015 its Annualservices, Report of the government and its • Complianceagencies. In withorder the to reassure ICTR Fundraising the public, theprinciples Board has that agreed the Association to undertake signed the following: up to previously.
• To complete the voluntarily signing up to the Code of Governance for the Community and Voluntary Sec • The publication of all senior manager salaries in the 2015 Annual Report tor (www.codeofgovernance.ie)• Compliance with the ICTR Fundraising principles that the Association signed up to • To preparepreviously. for the publication of all accounts in compliance with the Charities SORP once clarified by the Regulator• To complete the voluntarily signing up to the Code of Governance for the Community • To ensureand compliance Voluntary Sector with the(www.codeofgovernance.ie requirements of the Service) Agreement we enter in to with the HSE and with• all Togovernance prepare for requirements the publication included of all accountsin this document in compliance with the Charities SORP once clarified by the Regulator • To ensure compliance with the requirements of the Service Agreement we enter in to with Attendancethe HSE at and Board with all governanceof Director requirements Meetings included 2015/2016 in this document Attendance at Board of Director Meetings 2015/2016
Meeting Helen Anthony Marie Noelle Paddy Mary Pat Annette Joe Kieran Ed Philip date McHugh McCormack Munnelly Gallagher Geraghty Hegarty Higgins Dillon Gibbons McGloin Rose McKiernan 25/05/15 √ √ √ √ √ √ A √ - - - - 22/06/15 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ - - √ √ 20/07/15 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ - - A √ 23/09/15 √ √ A √ √ √ √ √ - - √ √ 19/10/15 A √ √ √ √ √ A A - - √ √ 16/11/15 √ √ √ √ √ A √ A - - A √ 14/12/15 √ √ √ √ A √ A √ - - A √ 18/01/16 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ A A √ 15/02/16 √ √ √ A √ √ √ A √ √ √ √ 21/03/16 √ √ A A √ √ A A √ √ √ A 09/05/16 √ √ √ A A √ √ √ √ √ √ √
GeneralGeneral Information Information
Board of Directors 2015/2016 Quality & Safety Ms. HelenBoard McHugh of Directors 2015West/201 6 (Chairperson) Committee Mr. PaddyMs. Geraghty Helen McHugh West West (Chairperson) Mr. Philip McKiernan Ms. NoelleMr. Gallagher Paddy Geraghty North West Mr. Chris Pratt Ms. MarieMs. Munnelly Noelle Gallagher North North Ms. Mary Daly Ms. Marie Munnelly North Quality & Safety Committee Mr. AnthonyMr. McCormackAnthony McCorm Southack South (Vice (Vice –Chairperson) – Mr. PhilipMr. McKiernanTom Hughes Ms. Mary Hegarty South Chairperson Mr. ChrisMr. Pratt Bernard O’Regan Mr. Pat HigginsMs. Mary Hegarty East South Ms. Mary Daly Ms. AnnetteMr. DillonPat Higgins East East Mr. Tom Hughes Mr. Joe GibbonsMs. Annette Dillon Nominated East Director Mr. BernardHR Committee O’Regan Mr. KieranMr. McGloin Joe Gibbons Nominated Nomina tedDirector Director Mr. Ed Rose Mr. Kieran McGloin Nominated Director Mr. Ed RoseMr. Ed Rose Nominated Nominated Director Director HR CommitteeMs. Pauline Brennan Mr. Philip Mr.McKiernan Philip McKiernan Nominated Nominated Director Director & & Mr. EdMr. Rose Tom Hughes Company Company Secretary Secretary Ms. PaulineMr. Anthony Brennan McCormack Mr. BernardMr. O’Regan Bernard O’Re ganExecutive Executive Director Director Mr. Tom Hughes Mr. Anthony McCormack
Finance Finance& Audit & Audit Sub-Committee Sub-Committee Mr. AnthonyMr. McCormackAnthony McCormack (Chairperson) (Chairperson) Mrs. HelenMrs. McHugh Helen McHugh Ms. Mary Ms.Hegarty Mary Hegarty Mr. BernardMr. O’Regan Bernard O’Regan Mr. JamesMr. Rocke James Rocke
20 Development & Fundraising
Fundraising Income from 2015 Fundraising 2015 Branch Income Events and Projects Door to Door Collection & During 2015 the people of Mayo Other Branch Fundraising raised €216,535 in support of Western Care Association Local Event /Project Amount Activities Services through fundraising events and projects, donations, grants, etc. Brian Cawley Memorial Cycle & Tour of € 10,078 Branch Amount This funding is vital, particularly in Mayo Cycles Achill € 13,767 the present economic climate, as it Cáirde Crann Mór Bingo € 10,933 provides the Association with critical Ardagh € 2,310 Cáirde Crann Mór Sundry Fundraising € 32,177 extra resources to fund training, Balla € 1,852 social and sporting opportunities Card Games € 8,717 Ballina € 8,049 for our service users. It also funds Christmas Cards € 11,096 Ballinrobe € 6,879 transport and some building projects. Christmas Dinners & Party Nights € 2,176 Ballintubber/Ballyheane € 2,169 In addition fundraising activities play Concerts, Plays, Socials, etc. € 2,958 a vital role in raising the profile of the Ballyhaunis € 7,576 Association in the Community and Corporate & Personal Donations € 32,067 Belmullet € 2,416 the great work it does throughout Grants € 2,000 Bohola € 716 the County. Western Care is greatly iRegister/iDonate € 2,990 Bonniconlon € 4,067 indebted to the many volunteers and benefactors who give so much Mayo Four a Side Darts € 5,800 Burrishoole/Newport € 3,155 of their time, energy and money NYC Marathon, Dublin Marathon, Womens € 34,336 Carnacon € 650 to support Mayo people with Mini Marathons Carracastle € 500 intellectual disabilities and their Mobile Phones & Textile Recycling € 10,247 Castlebar € 18,301 families. If you would like to help Staff Deductions/Standing Orders € 1,819 Charlestown € 848 in any way, particularly in this year marking the fiftieth anniversary of Sundry Fundraising Events € 18,405 Claremorris € 5,770 the foundation of the Association, VTC Fundraising Events (Christmas Trees & € 8,910 Cooneal € 821 please contact the Fundraising Shop, Raffles, etc.) Crossmolina (Plus EGC) € 8,018 Department (details below) or call to Walks (Clare Island, Michael’s Walk & € 13,746 Currane € 1,008 the fundraising office at John Moore Summer Solstice Walking Festival) Drummin € 621 Road, Castlebar, County Mayo. Westport Golf Classic & Kennedy € 8,079 Foxford € 470 Foundation Donation Joe Brett, Fundraising Manager Islandeady € 3,023 Phone: 094 9029136/144; TOTAL €216,535 Kilawalla € 1,297 E-mail: [email protected] Kilfian € 562 Voluntary Sector 1966-2016 Kilkelly/Kilmovee € 4,726 Western Care Association celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year which is a significant milestone. Killala € 1,815 From little acorns big trees grow. This is a time to reflect, remember and recognise all those Kilmaine € 3,057 Volunteers who gave so generously of their time and expertise to Western Care over the 50 last Kilmeena € 785 years. You were part of the journey with the Organisation, be proud of your contributions, you Kiltane € 416 have made a real difference. We continue to need you now more than ever. Kiltimagh € 5,960 From the outset, the Door to Door Collection was established and modelled on the GAA Knock € 1,999 structure, based on local communities and parishes coming together in unselfish dedicated Knockmore/Rathduff € 6,915 service, all over County Mayo. The great success of the Door to Door Collection is attributed to the hard work, dedication and commitment of hundreds of collectors over the years. Lacken € 860 Louisburgh € 1,141 Mayo Based Charity Mayo Association Dublin € 14,270 The financial benefits of the Door to Door Collection cannot be underestimated but it also Mayo Abbey/Facefield € 2,825 creates a real connection with local communities enhancing the sense of ownership that these Murrisk € 1,172 communities have of Western Care. It is worth noting that Western Care is a Mayo based Charity, dedicated to providing a broad range of services to the people we support. Robeen/Roundfort € 230 Shrule/Glencorrib € 5,465 Thank You Swinford € 628 A very special “Thank You” to the people of Mayo for their generosity and commitment to Taugheen/Crossboyne € 1,340 Western Care for 50 years. We thank you for the confidence and the trust that you place in The Neale/Cong € 1,284 Western Care. We always try to demonstrate transparency in how we use our much needed fundraising monies. Tourmakeady € 3,655 Westport € 8,481 Teresa Ward, Development Officer Total €161,869 Phone: 094 9029174/29120 Mobile: 087 2467857 E-mail: [email protected]
21 Human Resources
The Human Resources Department provides advice and support in relation to all aspects of Human Resources including: • Resource planning, recruitment and selection practices to support the delivery of the services. • Implementation of nationally agreed change to staff terms and conditions • Policy and Procedure development and the implementation of same. • Engagement and negotiations with Trade Unions on various staff related issues and change projects. • Participation in third party referrals to Work Place RelationsStaff StaffProfile and Profile other2015 2015external bodies where relevant. 4% 4% • Participation in various projects and Committees as members of the1% National 1% Federation of Voluntary Bodies. 3% 3%7% 7% 0% 0% ParamedicalParamedical Employee Welfare is an important aspect of HR work and Staff Profile 2015 10% 10% NursingNursing the Association provides staff with access to an Employee Staff Profile 2015 4% Social CareSocial Leader Care Leader Assistance Programme. Health and Safety, Insurance and 1% 3% 7% 0% SocialParamedical CareSocial Worker Care Worker Transport are also part of the remit of the Human 10% 22% CareNursing AssistantCare Assistant Resources Department. 22% TransportSocialTransport Care Leader 53% Staff Profile – 53% AdministrationSocialAdministration Care &Worker Management & Management Care Assistant 22% MaintenanceMaintenance Whole Time Equivalent (WTE) Transport 53% Administration & Management Employment Category Job Type WTE Maintenance Front Line Staff Paramedical 21.45 Nursing 0.75Staff Staff Profile Profile WTE 2015 WTE 2015 Social Care Leader 54.55 Staff Profile WTE 2015 Social Care Worker 126.55 Staff Profile WTE 2015 Care Assistant 297.85 8% 8% Transport 16.65 Total Front Line Staff 517.80 8% Front Front Line Line Staff Staff Support Staff Administration & Support Staff Management 37.55 Support Front Line Staff Staff Maintenance 6.00 Support Staff Total Support Staff 43.55 92% 92% Overall Total 561.35 92% TOTAL STAFF (HEADCOUNT) 804.00
SeniorSenior Staff SalariesStaff Salaries Senior Staff Salaries Senior Staff Salaries WesternWestern Care Association Care Association is accountable is accountable to the HSEto the for HSE the foruse the of usethe fundingof the funding provided provided for the forpurposes the purposes of providing of providing services.services. OnWestern this On basis,Care this Association thebasis, Association the is Association accountable confirms to confirms the that: HSE forthat: the use of the funding provided for the purposes of providing Western Care Association is accountable to the HSE •for Allthe• staffuseservices.All employedof staff the On employed funding this by basis, Western providedby the Western Association Care for Association Care the confirms Associationpurposes that:are paid of are providingsalaries paid salaries in line inwith line HSE with salary HSE ssalarycales associatedscales associated with with services. On this basis, the Association confirms that: the post•the they Allpost staffare they employedemployed are employed by in Western in Care Association are paid salaries in line with HSE salary scales associated with • All staff employed by Western Care Association are• paidNo• staff salariesNo is thestaff in post receipt in is they linein receipt ofare with any employed ofHSEtop any-up salaryin topor -unapprovedup scales or unapproved associated payment payment with the post they are employed in • Western• •Western CareNo staff Association Care is in Associationreceipt has of anyprovided hastop- providedup orall unapproved information all information payment on salaries on salaries to the HSEto the and HSE the and Public the PublicAccounts Accounts Committee Committee • No staff is in receipt of any top-up or unapproved paymentwhen required•when Western required to Caredo so toAssociation do so has provided all information on salaries to the HSE and the Public Accounts Committee • Western Care Association has provided all informationWith respecWith on salaries trespec towhen staff trequired to topaid staff the over to paidHSE do € so 65,000 overand €the65,000 per Public annum, per annum,Accounts the following the following salary scalessalary applyscales inapply Western in Western Care Association: Care Association: With respect to staff paid over €65,000 per annum, the following salary scales apply in Western Care Association: Committee when required to do so With respect to staff paid over €65,000 per annum, the followingExecutive salaryDirector scales apply in Western €93,042 Care - €107,429 Association: 1 person Executive ExecutiveDirector Director € 93,042 €93,042 - €107,429 - €107,429 1 1 person person Grade Vlll €64,812 - € 74,551 3 people Grade VlllGrade Vlll € 64,812 €64,812 - € 74,551- € 74,551 3 3 people people Executive Director €93,042 - €107,429Senior Senior PsychologistSenior Psychologist Psychologist 1 person € 74,035 € 74,035€74,035 - € 86,317- € - 86,317€ 86,317 5 5 people people 5 people Grade Vlll €64,812 - € 74,551Psychologist Psychologist Psychologist 3 people € 53,983 € 53,983€53,983 - € 79,458- € - 79,458€ 79,458 1 1 people people 1 people Senior Psychologist €74,035 - € 86,317Principal Principal SocialPrincipal SocialWorker Social Worker Worker 5 people € 63,886 € 63,886€63,886 - € 73,754- € - 73,754€ 73,754 1 1 person person 1 person Psychologist €53,983 - € 79,458Social SocialWork Social TeamWork Work Leaders Team Team Leaders Leaders 1 person € 55,789 € 55,789€55,789 - € 65,000- € - 65,000 € 65,000 2 2 people people 2 people Principal Social Worker €63,886 - € 73,754Speech Speech andSpeech and and 1 person Social Work Team Leaders €55,789 - € 65,000Language Language LanguageTherapy Therapy TherapyManager Manager Manager 2 people € 60,640 € 60,640€60,640 - € 69,660- € - 69,660€ 69,660 1 1 person person 1 person Speech and Language Therapy Manager €60,640 - € 69,660The current The The current Executive current Executive Executive Di rector DiDi isrectorrector 1at person the is is at topat the the of top thetop of scale.theof thescale. Thescale. The Association AssociationThe Association doesdoes notnot does pay pay anynot any otherpay other anybonus bonus other or top orbonus-up top - orup top-up paymentspayments topayments the Executiveto tothe the Executive Executive Director. Director.
The current Executive Director is at the top of the scale. The Association does not pay any other bonus or top-up payments to the Executive Director. The Association operatesThe a Associationdefined operatescontribution a defined pension contribution scheme pension schemewhich whichhas has been approved by the Department of The AssociationThe Association operates operates a defined a defined contribution contribution pension pension scheme scheme which whichhas been has approved been approved by the byDepartment the Department of of been approved by the Department of Health. The Employer Health.contributes The Employer 7% towards contributes the 7% pension towards the of pension all staff of alland staff and each employee contributes 5% of their Health.Health. The Employer The Employer contributes contributes 7% towards 7% towards the pension the pension of all staff of all and staff each and employee each employee contributes contributes 5% of 5%their of their each employee contributes 5% of their salary towards their salarypension. towards their pension. salary towardssalary towards their pension. their pension.
22 Evaluation and Training
The Evaluation and Training Department is responsible for the organisation and delivery of staff training and facilitation, the co-ordination of procedural development and distribution, and the leadership of the Quality Management and Planning function. This includes the area of regulations and standards such as those being implemented by HIQA, the New Directions in Day Services Policy initiative by the HSE and the National Safeguarding Strategy for example. In addition, the whole area of Quality has increasingly been associated explicitly with Risk. ETD has evolved its functions in line with these emerging trends.
Staff Training in Basic Assurances Train the Trainer events in topics such as ‘Responsible Basic Assurance training is concerned with a foundation and Safe Medication Management’ and ‘Feeding, level of knowledge and skills that address the capacity of Eating, Drinking and Swallowing’ (FEDS). Western staff to meet the needs of people in the areas of Safety, Care Speech and Language Therapists (SLT) work in Protection, Health and Wellness. Targets were set out for partnership with an external trainer to incorporate Food the 3 mandatory training events which include Protection and Nutrition training as part of the FEDS programme & Welfare (100%), Fire Safety (85%) and Minimal Handling that SLT deliver. These events are prioritised for staff in (75%). Mandatory training events are run on a 36-month Residential and Respite Services as that is where the refresher training cycle to ensure skills are maintained primary requirement lies. It also represents the service across all staff at the above rate of cover. In addition, a division with the largest number of staff. We have also number of other basic assurance training events such as commenced opening these events to staff in other First Aid or Managing Challenging Behaviour are run on a areas such as Day Services and Individualised Services. similar refresher cycle. Targets for these events are set on different parameters as they do not apply to all organisation Training in Supporting Epilepsy which was redesigned staff. This is even more the case with training to address in conjunction with Epilepsy Ireland Trainers last specific medical conditions such as diabetes, oxygen, peg year continues to be delivered by an internal trainer. feeding, etc. which relate to small numbers of the people This redesign has arisen in part from a change in the we support and apply only to staff working with them. nature of emergency medication used to manage seizures. Training in Managing Diabetes continues The challenge for the organisation in recent years has to be part of our Health and Wellness suite of been (1) a substantial increase in the numbers of staff training and is delivered by an internal trainer also. employed, (2) a regulatory requirement for increased types of training and (3) a continuing level of financial constraint. There were a total of 32 courses in the category of Health and Wellness in 2015 which represents an The data for 2015 (see graph on the following page) increase of 39% on last year. These courses were shows that the substantial improvement demonstrated provided to 505 staff with the residential/respite in last year’s figures for Protection & Welfare Training has service area being prioritised. The coverage levels been sustained and coverage levels are at the identical are presented in the graph on the following page. level of 92% for the entire organisation. While the target of 100% has not yet been reached we will continue to In addition to the standard programme of assurance focus on increasing coverage to ensure the target is met. training, there was a range of assurance-type bespoke Underneath the total organisational average figures, events delivered to address situations where training however, it shows there are 96% of Residential/Respite had to be individualised to the particular requirements and 95% of Day Service staff are in coverage. Therefore, the of the person in their own environment. These direct support services have highest coverage compared to bespoke events included training to staff teams in health administration and organisation support functions (85%). related areas such as Dementia Awareness, Managing Diabetes, Epilepsy Management, Abdominal Thrust, The target for Fire Safety was met although there was Nasogastric Feeding and Peg Feeding. Individualised a shortfall of 2% in reaching the Minimal Handling handling and movement training which included target. Both of these represented improvements on Mattress Evacuation, Hoist Demonstrations and Sliding last year’s figures albeit relatively small. However, Sheet Demonstrations, were also a feature of bespoke this has to be seen in a context of an increase in the training to staff teams where either one or more organisational headcount of 17% which represents an persons in the service had particular support needs. exceptional increase in the numbers of additional staff Bespoke events were also run for a number of staff teams to be trained. These targets are currently under review who required additional training in supporting individuals and we are attempting to incrementally increase annual with complex behaviours that challenge. Person Centred targets and % coverage levels across these three courses. Planning was also provided to a number of staff teams in respect of the individuals they support. In total, there During 2015, we continued to provide training in were 79 such bespoke training interventions provided a number of Health and Wellness programmes of in 2015 to 665 staff. The growth of bespoke training training which we added to our internal training menu has become an increasing feature of training provision last year. These programmes were delivered mainly over the last number of years and is set to continue. by accredited internal trainers who have completed
23 Evaluation and Training
Bespoke events were also run for a number of staff teams bespoke events included training to staff teams in who required additional training in supporting individuals health related areas such as Dementia Awareness, with complex behaviours that challenge. Person Centred Managing Diabetes,Evaluation Epilepsy andManagement, Training Planning was also provided to a number of staff teams in Abdominal Thrust, Nasogastric Feeding and Peg respect of the individualsBespoke eventsthey support. were also In runtotal, for there a number were of staff teams Feeding. Individualisedbespoke handling events includedand movement training to staff teams in who required additional training in supporting individuals health related areas such as Dementia79 Awareness, such bespoke training interventions provided in 2015 training which included Mattress Evacuation, Hoist with complex behaviours that challenge. Person Centred Managing Diabetes, Epilepsy Management,to 665 staff. The growth of bespoke training has become Demonstrations and Sliding Sheet Demonstrations, Planning was also provided to a number of staff teams in Abdominal Thrust, Nasogastric Feedingan increasingand Peg feature of training provision over the last were also a feature of bespoke training to staff teams respect of the individuals they support. In total, there were Feeding. Individualised handling andnumber movement of years and is set to continue. where either one or more persons in the service had 79 such bespoke training interventions provided in 2015 training which included Mattress Evacuation, Hoist particular support needs. to 665 staff. The growth of bespoke training has become Demonstrations and Sliding Sheet Demonstrations, an increasing feature of training provision over the last were also a feature of bespoke training to staff teams number of years and is set to continue. Evaluationwhere eitherand one Training or more persons in the service had particular support needs.
Enhancement Level Training events is to provide staff members with opportunities Enhancement Level EnhancementTraining Level Training to develop more advanced knowledge and skills which EnhancementEnhancement level training level trainingrefers refersto events to events which which go go can beStaff incorporated attended a broaintod existingrange of training.Enhancement For example,level Enhancement level training refers to events which go Staff attendedstaff a may broa attendd range an of eventEnhancement for learning level about Dementia beyond thebeyond basic the assurance basic assurance type typeof ofprogramme programme andand are training across 72 separate events. Part of the beyond theare basic concerned assurance with type more of programme advanced and skills, are methods training and acrosswhich 72 then separate becomes events. part ofPart the of bodythe of knowledge concerned with more advanced skills, methods and function of these events is to provide staff members concerned approacheswith more andadvanced new waysskills, of methods enhancing and the livesfunction and ofthat these is eventspassed is onto provideto staff staffwho members receive internal training approachescapacities and new approachesofways others. of enhancing and new waysthe livesof enhancing and the withlives andopportunities in thiswith topic. toopportunities Theredevelop were moreto also develop advanceda series more of workshopsadvanced in capacities of others. knowledge and skills which can be incorporated into capacities of others. knowledgeunderstanding and skills which canautism be incorporated and providing into individualised Staff attended a broad range of Enhancement level training supportexisting run by training. internal staff trainers who have developed across 72 separate events. Part of the function of theseexisting training.a series of modules based on materials and learning from
24 Evaluation and Training
Studio 3 and related professionals such as Sue Hatton. Specialist courses involving topics such as bereavement, This will continue to be a focus in 2016. A number of staff suicide prevention, vision impairment, caring for the EvaluatiEvaluationon andalso and attended Training Training observation sessions of the Rapid Prompt child with a life limiting condition, end of life planning, Method (RPM) for supporting people with autism which legal issues for capacity and consent, supporting the
is part of an engagement with families who are alsoInformation,Information, person with RiskRiskdementia AssessorsAssessors and risk managementProgramme,Programme, were RiskRisk For Forexample, example, staff leadingstaff may may the attend training attend anprogramme. an event event for for learning learning attended by staff with particular roles in those areas. aboutabout Dementia Dementia which which then then becomes becomes part part of of the the body body ManagementManagement and and InfectionInfection Control.. of knowledgeof knowledge that Athat numberis ispassed passed of staffon on toalso tostaff completedstaff who who Trainreceive receive the Trainer Staff also attended a series of workshops across a range programmes including Dysphagia Management and Traininga of topics Summary related to their specialist field as a part of internalinternal training training in thisin this topic. topic. There There were were also also a aseries series Training Summary Minimal Handling Instructor Programme. A number ofIn summary,continuing thereprofessional were development.a total of 294 These training included courses of workshops in understandstaff attendeding Earlybird autism Healthy and Minds providing Train the TrainersIn summary,assessment therein Autism were Spectruma total of Disorder, 294 training National courses of workshops in understanding autism and providing provided in 2015. These broke down into the following individualisedindividualised support supportseries runfor runfamilies by byinternal internalof children staff staff with trainers trainers autism. who Thiswho is nowprovided Home-sharing in 2015. and These Short broke Breaks, down Powered into theMobility, following have developed a beingseries delivered of modules in a regular based programme on materials of training tocategoriescategories Paediatric ofof training;Continence,training; therethere Foetal were Alcohol aa totaltotal Syndrome, ofof 222222 BasicBasic have developedfamilies a series and of extends modules the range based of contenton materials in the already Cervical Auscultation, Visual Impairment and Child and learning from Studio 3 and related professionals AssuranceAssurance events.events. TheseThese included 111111 BasicBasic SkillsSkills and learning fromexisting Studio Earlybird 3 andTraining related Programme. professionals The key staffevents Development, providing Bereavement,1510 training Occupational places, 32Therapy Health and such as Sue Hatton.involved in protection issues attended a series of Trainevents Conference providing and Study1510 Day. training Other Enhancementplaces, 32 eventsHealth and such as Sue Hatton. Wellness events providing 505 training places and 79 This will continuethe to Trainer be a workshopsfocus in in2016. Safeguarding A number which willof supportWellness included events LÁMH providing Signing communication505 training placestraining, and 79 staffThis also will attended continuethe observation roll to outbe ofa thefocus newsessions in National 2016. of Policy Athe number forRapid Safeguarding of bespoke Supported events Self-Directed in Basic Living, Assurances Wellbeing forproviding people 665 Vulnerable People at Risk of Abuse in 2016. There were bespokewith Autism,events Sensoryin Basic Environments Assurances Training providing and 665 Promptstaff Methodalso attended (RPM) observation for supporting sessions people of the withRapid training places. In addition there were 72 Enhancement Prompt Methoda series (RPM) of Community for supporting Workshops peopleprovided withinternally totrainingtraining Communication eventsplaces. providedIn Workshop. addition to there327 staff.were 72In Enhancementtotal, training autism which is partstaff teamsof an seeking engagement a method withfor exploring families community training events provided to 327 staff. In total, training autism which resourcesis part of and an matching engagement these to thewith needs families and interests in BasicStaff fromAssurance organisation and support Enhancement functions attended events training providedin who are also leading the training programme. in Basic Assurance and Enhancement events provided who are also leadingof people the they training support. programme. 3007 specialisttraining areas places of HR, IT, Freedomfor staff of Information,or an average Risk Assessors of 3.8 per 3007Programme, training Riskplaces Management for staff and Infectionor an average Control. of 3.8 per A number of staff also completed Train the Trainer staff member employed. programmesA number including of staff alsoDysphagia completed Management Train the andTrai nera staff member employed. Minimalprogrammes Handling Trainingincluding Instructor Summary Dysphagia Programme. Management A number and of a staffMinimal attended Handling Earlybird Instructor Healthy Programme. Minds ATrain number the of In summary, there were a total of 294 training courses provided Trainersstaff attendedseries infor 2015.Earlybird families These brokeofHealthy children down Minds into with the Train autism.following the categories of ThisTrainers is now beingseriestraining; deliveredfor therefamilies were in a ofa regulartotal children of 222 programme Basicwith Assurance autism. of events. These trainingThis tois nowfamilies beingincluded and delivered 111 extends Basic Skillsin the a eventsregularrange providing ofprogramme content 1510 trainingin of places, 32 the already existingHealth andEarlybird Wellness eventsTraining providing Programme. 505 training places and 79 training to familiesbespoke and events extends in Basic theAssurances range providingof content 665 in training places. The key staff involved in protection issues attended a the already Inexisting addition Earlybirdthere were 72Training Enhancement Programme. training events provided series of Train theto 327 Trainer staff. In total,workshops training in in Basic Safeguarding Assurance and Enhancement The key staff involved in protection issues attended a which will supportevents the provided roll 3007out trainingof the places new for National staff or an average of 3.8 series of Trainper thestaff Trainermember employed.workshops in Safeguarding Policy for Safeguarding Vulnerable People at Risk of which will support the roll out of the new National Abuse in 2016.Supporting There were Compliance a series ofwith Community Regulation WorkshopsPolicy for provided Safeguarding internally Vulnerable to staff Peopleteams seekingat Risk aof Abuse in 2016.Throughout There 2015,were ETD a seriesstaff continued of Community to be involved in the method for exploringdevelopment communityof Tools and resourcesTemplates forand addressing HIQA matchingWorkshops these provided Regulations.to the needsinternally These andincluded to interestaff Templates teamssts of for seekingpeople Annual aReports which theymethod support. for managersexploring of Designatedcommunity Centres resources were facilitated and to complete. Throughout the year, ETD staff worked with service managers matching theseto undertaketo the needs unannounced and intere internalsts inspectionsof people at 6-monthly Specialistthey support. courses intervals asinvolving required in HIQAtopics Designated such Centres as and participated bereavement, suicideheavily inprevention, the preparation ofvision services impairment, for monitoring and registration inspections by HIQA. caringSpecialist for the childcourses with a involvinglife limiting topicscondition, such end ofas life bereavement,planning, legalExternal suicide issues Environmentprevention, for capacity vision and impairment, consent, supportingcaring for thethe childperson with awith life limitingdementia condition, and endrisk of ETD staff continue to represent the Association on a number of sectoral and national forae including the National managementlife planning, were legal attended issues byfor staffcapacity with and particular consent, roles in those areas.Safeguarding Strategy Reference Group and the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies Quality Subcommittee. supporting the person with dementia and risk Supporting Compliance with Regulation Throughout 2015, ETD staff continued to be involved Staffmanagement also attended were a series attended of workshops by staff acrosswith particulara range roles in those areas. in the development of Tools and Templates for of topics related to their specialist field addressing Supporting HIQACompliance Regulations. with Regulation These included as a part of continuing professional development. These TemplatesThroughout for 2015, Annual ETD staffReports continued which to managersbe involved of includedStaff alsoassessment attended ain series Autism of workshops Spectrum across Disorder, a range Designated25in the development Centres wereof Tools facilitated and Templatesto complete. for Nationalof topics Home related-sharing to their and specialist Short fieldBreaks, Powered Throughoutaddressing theHIQA year, Regulations.ETD staff worked These with included service Mobility,as a part Paediatricof continuing Continence, professional development.Foetal Alcohol These managersTemplates forto Annualundertake Reports unannounced which managers internal of Syndrome,included Cervicalassessment Auscultation, in Autism VisualSpectrum Impairment Disorder, inspectionsDesignated at Centres6-monthly were intervals facilitated as required to complete. in HIQA andNational Child Development,Home-sharing Bereavement,and Short Breaks, Occupational Powered DesignatedThroughout Centresthe year, and ETD participated staff worked heavily with servicein the TherapyMobility, Conference Paediatric andContinence, Study FoetalDay. AlcoholOther preparationmanagers ofto services undertake for monitoring unannounced and registrationinternal Enhancement events included LÁMH Signing Syndrome, Cervical Auscultation, Visual Impairment inspectionsinspections by at HIQA6-monthly. intervals as required in HIQA communication training, Supported Self-Directed and Child Development, Bereavement, Occupational Designated Centres and participated heavily in the Living, Wellbeing for people with Autism, Sensory Therapy Conference and Study Day. Other Externalpreparation Environment of services for monitoring and registration Environments Training and Communication Workshop. ETD staff continue to represent the Association on a Enhancement events included LÁMH Signing inspections by HIQA. number of sectoral and national forae including the communication training, Supported Self-Directed Staff from organisation support functions attended National Safeguarding Strategy Reference Group and trainingLiving, in specialistWellbeing areas for ofpeople HR, IT,with Freedom Autism, of Sensory External Environment Environments Training and Communication Workshop. the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies Quality Subcommittee.ETD staff continue to represent the Association on a
number of sectoral and national forae including the Staff from organisation support functions attended National Safeguarding Strategy Reference Group and training in specialist areas of HR, IT, Freedom of the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies Quality Subcommittee.
Acknowledgements
The Association wishes to thank and pay tribute to all volunteers, collectors, branch members and staff, who consistently give their time and effort to the work of the Association. Particular appreciation is extended to the parents and families of children and adults with a learning disability and /or autism using the Association’s services, for their support and confidence.
We also wish to thank the following, whose co-operation and assistance to the Association’s objectives and work throughout 2015 has been invaluable:
Mayo Local Health Office & • Galway Mayo Institute of Technology Health Services Executive West Region • Genio • Frank Murphy – ISA Manager • Hospital Saturday Fund • Martin Greaney – General Manager • IBEC • Mary Warde – Director of Disability Services • Inclusion Ireland • Séan Gordon – Disability Services Manager • Irish Council for Social Housing • Donal Hoban, Occupational Guidance Officer, HSE • Irish Society for Autism • Mayo Mental Health Services • Irish TV • Staff of Aras Attracta • Mayo Advertiser • Mayo General Hospital • Mayo Autism Support Association • Michael Keady - Regional Training Co-ordinator • Mayo County Council • Mayo County Council Arts Office Our Supporters • Mayo County Enterprise Board • Allergan International Foundation • Mayo News • A.I.B. Bank • Mayo Volunteer Centre • All Public Representatives • Midwest Radio • Ballina Beverages • Moy Valley Resources • Bank of Ireland • Muintir Mhaigh Eo Dublin • C & C Cellular Ltd • Muintir Mhaigh Eo Galway • Cáirde Crannmór • National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) • Chefs of Mayo Club • N.L.N. – National Learning Network • Coillte • National Disability Authority • Connaught Spring Show • National Federation of Voluntary Bodies • Connaught Telegraph • National Lottery • Cookstown Textile Recycling Ltd • North East Mayo Development Company • CRC FM Radio • Rehab Care • Department of Children • Shrule & District Vintage Club • Department of Community, Rural & Family Affairs • Solas • Department of Education and Skills • South West Mayo Development Company • Department of Environment • Special Olympics Ireland/Connaught • Department of Health • Tacú, Ballinrobe • Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport • The Council on Quality & Leadership • Disability Federation of Ireland • TÚS • Downs Syndrome Association of Ireland • Volunteers • East Mayo Development Company • Western Care Trust • Western People In addition, we are deeply indebted to all other organisations, and the people of Mayo who help and support us throughout the year.
Front Cover: Back Cover: Artwork by Frances O’Reilly, Artwork by Anna Rose Lowry, Carrowbeg Enterprises Carrowbeg Enterprises
26 Western Care Association
John Moore Road, Castlebar, Mission Statement Co. Mayo. Western Care Association exists to empower people with a wide range of learning and associated Tel: 094-9025133 disabilities in Mayo to life full and satisfied lives as Fax: 094-9025207 equal citizens. We achieve this through the provision of a E-mail: [email protected] comprehensive range of innovative services and Website: www.westerncare.com supports.