Cummal Mooar 'a clear priority' but no fixed date for motion

Minister says DHSC is committed to 'modern, flexible replacement' for Ramsey facility

The health minister says the future of Cummal Mooar remains a clear priority despite not having a timeline to progress the project.

Claire Christian has provided an update following a Tynwald written question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.

It's been more than two years since plans to close the residential home in Ramsey were put on hold by the health department.

In March 2024, during Mr Hooper's time as health minister, it was confirmed plans to replace the facility were on track, but in January this year Ms Christian revealed progress had slowed.

Now, Ms Christian says DHSC does not yet have a fixed date to bring forward a financial motion for the project, but insists it is firmly on the agenda.

Initially, the plan had been to deliver a 45-bed residential facility with day centre, but Minister Christian says the department and Manx Care are now exploring a redesigned model to drive forward the 'Home First' model - which aims to help people live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

She believes this would provide a blend of extra care and more flexible nursing arrangements.

Active talks with Treasury, Manx Care and the Project Management Unit are ongoing as part of a wider review of the capital programme, and the minister says she hopes to share a more detailed update on the next steps for Cummal Mooar in the coming months.

She adds that her department is fully committed to delivering a modern, flexible replacement for Cummal Mooar in the centre of the town.