Rights to privacy of Slievemore patients will be respected

Two weeks ago the Sentinel reported the Slievemore Nursing Unit for people with dementia was to close by May 31, after it was revealed its care model could not be registered under the Regulation and Qualification Improvement Authority’s (RQIA) classifications.

Thirty-one staff currently employed there will be redeployed to other Trust facilities. Patients in the unit will be prioritised for nursing care placements.

Mr Poots said: “As Slievemore Nursing Unit was never intended to be a permanent placement for any patient, the Trust is working to engage with families to select suitable nursing home placements which will allow reasonable access for relatives and afford reasonable private family time.”

He said the Western Trust “will endeavour to promote a homely environment; encouraging relatives to personalise a patient’s room by bringing in significant items from their life and experiences.”

The Minister said the development will respect patients’ rights to privacy.

“The Trust has advised that is satisfied that in providing placements which meet these criteria it will be promoting the principles of Article 8 of the Human Rights Act,” he stated.