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Vulnerable Adults, Some Using Wheelchairs, Forced To Share Inaccessible Vehicles At Kildare HSE Service

Friday, 12 December 2025 15:54

By Martin Osborne - Head Of News

The inspection also uncovered significant staffing problems.

A HIQA inspection has found that vehicles provided to transport vulnerable adults at a HSE-run disability service in Kildare are not fit for purpose.

In a report seen by Kfm News, inspectors found that the two vehicles assigned to Aisling House Services are not wheelchair accessible, meaning some residents with mobility needs cannot be transported independently. 

Wheelchairs must be stored in the boot, reducing seating and leaving some residents unable to travel together, limiting access to everyday community activities.

"Limited space available in both vehicles also lead to a requirement of residents to sit close together, which in order to reduce anxiety for some residents led to residents not being able to travel together. Furthermore, neither of the vehicles had access to a wheelchair ramp which would greatly improve accessibility for residents and reduce the manual handling risks associated with the current centre vehicles," the report stated.

HIQA said the transport arrangements restrict choice, independence and participation.

The inspection also uncovered significant staffing problems. 

The centre was operating with ten vacant healthcare assistant posts, forcing heavy reliance on agency staff.

Records show 182 agency shifts were used in a single month, with two houses staffed entirely by agency workers on 13 separate days, day and night. 

HIQA warned this level of turnover was undermining continuity of care, and found the centre non-compliant with staffing regulations.

Despite the concerns, inspectors said residents were safe, well cared for and happy, and observed positive relationships with staff.

The centre was found fully compliant in areas including governance, safeguarding, training, fire safety and care planning.

The Registered Provider has also engaged a wheelchair accessibility and "conversion specialist" to assess the possibility of adapting the current vehicles, while a business case requesting a more appropriate service vehicle has been submitted.

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