New probation facility to be established

David Gray House becoming 'unfit for purpose'

A rehabilitation centre for offenders who have served in prison is set to close, government has confirmed.

David Gray House, operated by the Salvation Army, provides care for up to nine residents, both male and female, as part of the Island's parole service.

The former boarding house is described by the charity as 'very old' and 'becoming unfit for purpose.'

In a statement on social media today, government has announced its contract with the group will come to an end, with a new building outside Douglas set up to offer a 'changing' service.

It says the probation service will now 'directly provide' parole with the aim of addressing 'resettlement issues'.

The new residential facility will offer rehabilitation work and more programmes to offenders as part of an effort to reintegrate them into the community.