Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) play a vital role in supporting vulnerable youth. They’re designed to provide care, guidance, and treatment to children and teenagers struggling with a range of mental health challenges. However, the South Kerry CAMHS controversy has cast a shadow over the trust placed in these services, raising serious concerns about governance, safety, and the treatment provided.
If you’re a parent affected by this situation—or concerned about the standards of care your child is receiving—this guide will break down the key issues, discuss the findings, and explain your options moving forward.
What Happened in South Kerry CAMHS?
Between July 2016 and April 2021, over 1,300 young people were under the care of South Kerry CAMHS in a region of County Kerry, Ireland. Unfortunately, a review of these cases revealed widespread shortcomings in the treatment and prescribing practices within this service.
Shocking Findings from the Review
According to the Look-back Review into South Kerry CAMHS, the care provided to 240 young patients did not meet acceptable standards. Even more distressing, the report found that 46 children suffered significant harm, including serious side effects such as weight gain, slowed thinking, fatigue, and emotional dysregulation.
Additionally:
- Children were frequently prescribed medications inappropriately, including antipsychotic drugs like risperidone.
- Monitoring of health markers like blood pressure, weight, and pulse—essential when prescribing such treatments—was largely neglected.
- Some ADHD diagnoses were made without sufficient input from schools, one of the key sources of behaviour insights.
Compensation Settlements
Recently, four children who experienced harm from over-medication have settled claims in the High Court, receiving a combined €196,000. These cases highlighted not only inappropriate prescriptions but also a lack of supervision and monitoring by the medical professionals involved.
Governance Failures and the HSE’s Response
Governance issues within South Kerry CAMHS were described as systemic. According to the HSE’s report, problems in oversight and management contributed to the failings, including poor training and inadequate supervision of doctors.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has since apologised to 250 affected families and acknowledged the failures in care. Furthermore, the review outlined 35 key recommendations to improve governance and clinical processes within CAMHS.
While these reforms point to systemic improvements for the future, they come too late for the children and families impacted by the failings.
What Does This Mean for Parents?
If your child has been directly affected by substandard treatment at South Kerry CAMHS—or if you suspect their care in any mental health service is not up to standard—it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard their wellbeing and explore accountability options.
Here’s what parents should do next.
1. Review Your Child’s Treatment Records
Request a copy of your child’s full medical records from the relevant CAMHS provider. This will help you assess the type of medications prescribed, any recorded side effects, and the level of monitoring carried out during their treatment.
2. Watch for Red Flags
Certain side effects or changes in your child’s behaviour could indicate they were impacted by inappropriate treatment. Look out for:
- Unusual weight changes
- Noticeable fatigue or sluggish behaviour
- Emotional dysregulation or heightened irritability
- Cognitive effects such as slowed thinking
If you notice significant changes or ongoing issues, seek immediate medical advice and follow up with appropriate professionals for a second opinion.
3. Get Independent Legal Advice
If you believe your child’s health or development has been harmed due to substandard care, obtaining independent legal advice is one of the most important steps you can take. Experienced medical negligence solicitors can guide you through the process of filing a claim, helping you access compensation and ensuring that your case contributes to systemic accountability.
At HOMS Assist, our team specialises in handling medical negligence cases with professionalism and compassion. We’ll help you confidently pursue justice for your loved one while navigating this complex legal pathway. Call us today for confidential advice.
4. Demand Transparency and Accountability
While systemic improvements have been pledged, it’s vital to keep holding providers accountable to ensure changes are implemented. You can:
- Attend parent advocacy groups or meetings in your area.
- Speak directly with CAMHS representatives to monitor their progress on reforms.
- Stay informed about further investigations or legal outcomes related to South Kerry CAMHS.
How to Ensure Your Child Receives Quality Care
The South Kerry CAMHS controversy underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to your child’s mental healthcare. Luckily, there are steps parents can take to advocate for better treatment and support.
1. Seek a Second Opinion
Never hesitate to request a second opinion if you’re unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan. This is your right as a parent, and it allows for a more collaborative approach to your child’s care.
2. Ask Questions
Make sure your child’s treatment plan is fully explained to you. Key questions include:
- Why has this medication been prescribed?
- What are the expected benefits and potential side effects?
- How will my child’s health and progress be monitored?
3. Request Regular Reviews
Proactive care includes regular reviews of your child’s progress and overall wellbeing. These reviews can catch potential problems early and ensure treatment plans remain appropriate over time.
4. Stay Involved
The more involved you are in your child’s mental healthcare, the more likely it is that they’ll receive high-quality support. Be their voice when necessary and ensure that their needs are being met both professionally and compassionately.
Moving Forward
The consequences of the South Kerry CAMHS scandal are profound, not just for the children affected but for the trust placed in Ireland’s mental health services. Parents must continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and systemic improvements across all levels of care.
If your family has been affected by the revelations surrounding South Kerry CAMHS, remember, you are not alone. Organisations like HOMS Assist are here to offer guidance and support, helping you chart a path forward.
Concerned about substandard care? Talk to our medical negligence experts today by calling 1800 207 207 or contacting us online. Together, we’ll ensure your voice is heard.
