Information for Young People

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Inspection of Children's Residential Centres!
What's That?

An inspection is a visit by inspectors who will talk to young people and staff about what it is like to live in a residential centre. They also talk to the parents of the young people and to children's social workers.

Who Are We?

Inspectors are people whose job it is to visit all children's residential centres to make sure that young people are being cared for safely and well.

Do We Work For The Health Board?

No, we are an independent service set up by the government.

Do We Inspect You?

No, we are looking at how well you are cared for by staff and social workers.

Why Do Inspections Take Place?

Inspections take place so that we can find out:

• If you are being looked after properly
• If you are involved in decisions about your life and your future
• If you are listened to and your opinions taken seriously
• If things that need to be done for you are happening
• If you and your family are treated with respect
• If you are treated the same as your friends in school or in your neighbourhood
• If there is anything that makes you unhappy about the centre and you would like to see changed.

How Do You Take Part in the Inspection?

The inspectors would like to meet and talk with you during the visit to your centre. We are very interested in what you have to say as you know best what living in your centre is like. We hope you will agree to meet with us, even for a short while.

What Will We Do With What You Tell Us?

We write a report saying what we found, and what if any changes should be made. This is sent to your centre and the Health Board. It is also posted on our Website at www.issi.ie. We also send a short report to you.

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If you would like to contact any of the inspectors, you can write or telephone us at:

Irish Social Services 
Inspectorate,
Floor 3,
94 St. Stephens Green,
Dublin 2.
Tel: 01-418-0588 

or, fill in the on-line contact form.