St Oliver Plunkett unit in Louth earns full HIQA compliance in unannounced inspection

St Oliver Plunkett Community Unit in Dundalk has received a highly positive assessment from HIQA following an unannounced inspection carried out on 1 October 2025. The centre, which is operated by the HSE and located on the grounds of Louth County Hospital, was found to be fully compliant in every regulation assessed. The outcome was described by inspectors as evidence of strong governance, safe practices, and a consistently high standard of care.

The inspection focused particularly on adult safeguarding and the measures in place to protect residents from all forms of abuse. Inspectors reported that safeguarding was “embedded into all aspects of care delivery,” ensuring residents lived in a secure environment where their rights and dignity were protected at all times.

During the visit, inspectors spoke with residents and relatives, all of whom expressed confidence in the care provided. Staff were praised for their kindness, compassion, and attentiveness. Residents reported feeling safe, respected, and supported, with one describing the food as “first class.”

Daily life at the centre was also shown to be engaging. On the morning of inspection, a group of residents attended a rosary in the chapel and those spoken with said they ‘enjoyed it very much’. Some of the male residents told the inspector how they liked attending the men’s club every week. Another resident said that they looked forward to the various outings, including a trip to the local beach.

The centre, which accommodates up to 63 residents across two units, was described as spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The inspector observed that staff endeavoured to keep residents safe, by providing supervision to them when in the communal living areas and in the dining rooms.

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HIQA highlighted strong management structures, noting effective oversight by the person-in-charge, the Assistant Director of Nursing, and a dedicated Safeguarding Officer. Staff training records demonstrated full compliance with mandatory requirements, including safeguarding training, while ongoing education in dementia care and human rights was encouraged.

All eight regulations inspected, including staffing, governance, protection, residents’ rights, and care planning, were found to be fully compliant.

Person-centred care planning was another area of strength, according to the report. Care plans were completed promptly on admission, reviewed regularly, and tailored to each resident’s preferences. Staff were knowledgeable about residents’ individual needs, including those who experience responsive behaviours, and used de-escalation techniques appropriately.

HIQA also noted the centre’s commitment to maintaining a restraint-free environment in line with national policy.