Work has begun on a new residential unit for adults with learning disabilities in Strang, Braddan.
The new £1.3 million facility, which will be operated by the Department of Health and Social Care, was approved by Tynwald at its February sitting.
A breaking ground ceremony was held today to mark the occasion with Member for Adult Social Care Services, David Quirk MHK, on site to cut a sod of grass.
Mr Quirk said:
'I am delighted to be here today to mark the beginning of construction work. We are fortunate to be able to invest in new facilities like this, which will serve some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Providing modern and fit-for-purpose accommodation makes a real difference to the quality of life of residents and helps us to deliver our care to a high standard.'
Once completed, the facility which is being constructed at the Leece Lodge site will see residents transfer from two units at Radcliffe Villas on Glencrutchery Road in Douglas. The new building has been specifically designed to accommodate adults with a learning disability and will operate as two community homes for five residents each. The facility will offer a significant improvement in the standard of accommodation for residents, such as bigger bedrooms, en-suites with hoisting and specialist bathing facilities and more accessible communal living areas including a garden.
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said:
'This is a significant and important investment by Government in a vital facility. It will ensure that we have accommodation that meets modern standards whilst freeing up existing facilities for alternative uses, which we can use to broaden our range of services.'
There are approximately 300 people on the Island with a complex learning disability with around 120 accommodated in a variety of community homes. Since 1991 the Isle of Man has worked to develop community based services with a greater mix of residential care, respite care, supported living and day care services.
Completion of the building and the handover to the Department is planned for early 2016.
