New mental health facility planned

Social Services hopes to build a brand new facility for older people with mental health problems in the Isle of Man.

If Tynwald gives the green light, the home would be in the north of the Island with separate bedrooms and en-suite facilities.

Residents currently have an Elderly Mentally Infirm unit in an old ward of Ramsey Cottage Hospital.

The DHSS says people needing long-term care should be in a facility that resembles home life as closely as possible.

A recent independent report found the current unit is not fit for purpose, prompting the changes.

To make the move as smooth as possible, the department says there will be a three-month preparation period.

If all goes well, residents should move at the beginning of May.