The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has launched a six-week public consultation on its updated National Standards for Residential Services for Disabled People. The public consultation, which opened on 04 June 2026, invites feedback from the public and will run until the 17 July 2026.

A 2025 evidence review undertaken by HIQA highlighted significant changes across the sector since the 'National Standards for Residential Services for Children and Adults with Disabilities’ were first published in 2013, including a stronger focus on a human-rights based approach to care and support.

This focus on a human rights-based approach is reflected in the new draft National Standards, along with increased emphasis on person-centred decision-making, communication tailored to individual needs, as well as better support during transitions within and between services. The updated National Standards also highlight the importance of clear accountability and governance arrangements and the role of technologies such as assistive tools and AI in providing safe, high quality and consistent care and support.

The updated Standards are underpinned by four principles: a human rights-based approach, safety and wellbeing, responsiveness, and accountability, and are aligned with the new ESN European Framework for Quality in Social Services, which was co-produced with sector professionals and rooted in recent practice

To support equity of participation, HIQA has developed a range of accessible consultation materials, including videos with Lámh and Irish Sign Language interpretation and will also meet with seldom heard groups during the public consultation process. Feedback gathered during the public consultation will help shape the final version of the standards. 

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) is the independent body responsible for promoting safety and quality in the provision of health and social care services in Ireland.

HIQA develops national evidence-based standards that set out what safe, quality, person-centred care and support should look like. HIQA also has legal responsibility for the monitoring, inspection and registration of designated centres for disabled people. Find out more at www.hiqa.ie. To read the updated standards and take part in the consultation, click here.