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Fears Over Sligo Respite Centres Closure Abated

There was fear amongst parents and relations of Sligo people with learning difficulties yesterday as rumours spread that several respite centres were to close as part of a cutback strategy by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Department of Health.

The centres provide a daily respite service for those with learning disability and autism and based in Sligo, Leitrim and West Cavan.

Frantic phonecalls and 'chatter' on online social media called for action from the public. In Tubbercurry concerned relations of the service users were beginning to draw up plans to raise the necessary funds to take over Mullholland House and run it in a private capacity.

It is understood that a similar proposal was being considered by those dependent on the services provided by Suaimhneas Respite House based on the Pearse Road in Sligo town.

Solas House, Sligo Town was also believed to be facing closure and the cessation of the vital respite services. This centre was opened in Novemeber 2009. See SligoToday.ie 24/11/09

However it emerged yesterday afternoon that the scare may have been sparked by a letter received by staff at the centres announcing staff changes proposals which are to be implemented.

Mrs Ann Killoran from Tubbercurry, a parent of a service user told SligoToday.ie, "We thought Mullholland House was to close. It appears that the staff got a bit confused over a letter they received about their jobs. Somebody thought the centre was being closed."

A relieved Mrs Killoran continued, "Its all OK now, a HSE lady has just explained everything and said she will call back in two to three weeks to keep us abreast at what's happening. She explained that she had to have meetings with the staff's union but there was no question of Mullholland House closing.

"Its a great relief as we have had a great service for the last 16 years."

'Ongoing Recruitment Moratorium'

The HSE confirmed to SligoToday.ie yesterday evening that there are no planned closures of HSE respite services.

However the Executive did confirm that they are looking at the way they currently deliver respite services and are considering alternative ways of providing support.

The staffing numbers, they said, have reduced due to retirements and the ongoing recruitment moratorium and they are currently exploring all options to continue to safely provide a service while also minimising the impact on the people using the services.

According to the statement, "The HSE is committed to the continued delivery of safe, high quality services to individuals receiving Learning Disability and Autism Services in Sligo, Leitrim and West Cavan in partnership with service users and their families/carers, staff, and senior HSE management.

The statement continued, "We have started consultation with unions and staff representatives on potential changes to the service to ensure we deliver the required services in line with our service plan. As part of this process, we will engage with service users and families prior to any public statement on changes.

"The Aoibhneas Day Centre in Ballymote will be relocated as the current lease agreement has been terminated by the landlord. An alternative day service is being sought in consultation with the service users who attend Aoibhneas Day Centre."

The HSE provides respite service at Mulholland House, Tubbercurry and Solas House, Sligo Town. Suaimhneas Respite House based on the Pearse Road, Sligo. Solas House is currently occupied with children for the summer period who have significant respite or shared care needs.