To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the status of the Valley Nursing Home in Clogher, Co Tyrone.

Following an unannounced RQIA inspection of the Valley Nursing Home on the 21st October RQIA identified a number of serious concerns regarding the general environment and ongoing care provision within the Home. RQIA requested the current registered provider HCI Ltd to attend a meeting to discuss the cancellation of their registration.

This meeting occurred on the 29th October 2020 and RQIA have issued HCI with a Notice of Proposal to cancel their registration. RQIA issued formal notification on the 4th November and HCI Ltd have 28 days from then to seek representation to appeal the sanction.

Letters have been sent by the Trusts to residents and their families to let them know what is currently happening in relation to their care and the future of the home. The three Trusts (Southern, Western and Northern) with residents in the home have been working to update care plans and put in place alternative placements. This has been done, and is being done, with the participation of residents and families.

All HSC agencies involved are mindful of the risk of moving residents and are sensitive to this happening during the Covid-19 pandemic and the approaching Christmas period. All agencies are working together to find a constructive way forward that ensures that residents are cared for appropriately.

Trusts have staff in the home daily and are content that residents are safe and being cared for appropriately.