It’s being suggested a “cumbersome recruitment process” is resulting in a shortfall of vital disability support staff in Clare.
New data from the HSE Regional Health Forum Midwest has revealed all posts are unfilled in Clare’s two Children’s Disability Network Teams in the areas of nursing and general support.
There are two Children’s Disability Network Teams, or CDNTs, in Clare, with one located in East Clare and the other in West Clare.
The figures released at the latest meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum Midwest show the two teams have vacancy rates of 20% and 16%, respectively.
In East Clare, no one is currently working in the areas of nursing, patient and client care, or general support, while in West Clare, all roles in nursing and general support are vacant.
Additionally, 19% of staff in the east of the county are on leave at present, with 15% off duty in the west.
Clare mother Kate Finn, whose 13-year-old son has additional needs, fears the way in which staff are recruited could be contributing to the problem.
The HSE says “all CDNT teams are actively engaged in the recruitment process, however they are all challenged with recruitment and retention”.
It says “staff attraction and retention initiatives including attendance at career fairs, social media campaigns and initiatives focused on staff health and wellbeing”.
Tulla-based mother Shirley Conway, whose twin boys have autism, insists it’s “very frustrating” for families when vital services aren’t available.
You can listen to the full interview below.
