HIQA Report Highlights
Orwell Healthcare is pleased to share the latest HIQA inspection report for Orwell Private, following an unannounced inspection carried out on 11th and 12th May 2026. The report highlights many positive aspects of life in the centre and recognises the dedication of our team in delivering compassionate, person-centred care to residents every day.
Residents who spoke with inspectors described Orwell Private as a lovely place to live, while inspectors observed many kind and respectful interactions between staff and residents throughout the inspection. Residents also spoke positively about the caring relationships they have built with staff and the support they receive.
Supporting Residents to Live Well
The inspection found that residents enjoy a welcoming and comfortable environment, with access to beautiful gardens, courtyards and outdoor spaces throughout the home. Inspectors noted that the centre was clean, well maintained and provided a range of communal spaces for residents to relax, socialise and spend time with family and friends.
Residents also benefit from a vibrant programme of activities designed to support wellbeing, independence and social connection. Activities available include music, reminiscence therapy, aromatherapy, gardening, therapeutic cooking, fitness programmes, games and regular outings. During the inspection, residents were looking forward to a planned visit to Rathfarnham Castle.
Dining and Care
Dining remains an important part of daily life at Orwell Private, and residents spoke highly of the quality and choice of meals available, describing the food as “excellent”. Inspectors observed appetising meals being served and noted that residents could choose where they wished to dine, either in communal dining areas or in the comfort of their own bedrooms.
The report also highlighted that residents have timely access to healthcare professionals when required, with specialist recommendations implemented to support individual needs. Care plans are regularly reviewed to ensure residents receive personalised care that reflects their preferences and supports their wellbeing.
Skilled and Dedicated Team
The report recognised the commitment of our staff team and the positive relationships that exist throughout the centre. Residents described staff as knowledgeable, caring and supportive, while inspectors found high levels of compliance in key areas such as safeguarding, manual handling, falls prevention and residents’ rights.
Inspectors also found that residents are supported by staff who know them well and understand their individual needs, helping to create a caring and person-centred environment.
Continuous Improvement
As part of HIQA’s comprehensive inspection process, a number of opportunities for further improvement were identified. Orwell Healthcare welcomes this feedback and has already implemented a detailed action plan to strengthen staffing arrangements, enhance clinical supervision, further develop governance systems and continue to build on existing quality assurance processes.
Actions already underway include the recruitment of additional nursing staff, enhanced night-time clinical oversight, increased staff mentoring and supervision, strengthened auditing systems and ongoing quality improvement initiatives across the service. These measures build on the many strengths identified during the inspection and further support the delivery of safe, high-quality care for residents.
Our Commitment to Residents
At Orwell Healthcare, we are committed to creating an environment where residents feel safe, respected and truly at home. We are proud of the positive feedback shared by residents and families and remain dedicated to continuously improving our services to ensure the highest standards of care, comfort and quality of life for everyone who lives at Orwell Private.
The full HIQA inspection report is available to view on our website, on the HIQA website, or as a printed copy available at reception.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Jim O’Callaghan said:
