CALM says Abortions NOT available on Island

Despite the Island's Abortion Reform Bill coming into affect today - women will not have access to the procedure on Island.

That's according to pro-choice group Campaign for Abortion Law Modernisation, which has taken to Twitter. 

Following unanimous backing from politicians the Act has become Manx legislation, and effectively should be accessible as of today. 

However,  CALM says this isn't the case.

The government has released a statement today which outlines now women on Island seeking a termination have been given a dedicated telephone hotline (01624 642521) and website to receive confidential advice, support and information.

It's ran by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) - the UK's leading abortion care service, with a 50 year track record. 

However, CALM says this service isn't available on the Isle of Man - and women will still have to travel to clinics across.

This is also a self-referral service - women do not have to wait to be referred by any health professional, including their GP.

The government says the reforms decriminalise abortion, making it possible to have a termination on request within the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, under specified circumstances during the 15-24-week period, and in certain situations after 24 weeks. 

It also say counselling services are in place and will be made available to women before and after a termination.

However, in a statement CALM says after women get in touch and discuss their options  on the phone - they will receive an appointment in Great Britain.

It says the DHSC will fund treatment, travel and accommodation, and also fund for an escort to come with the client for her treatment.

In a closing statement the charity says "Although women on Island have access to an abortion service for the first time,  they will still need to travel to a clinic in the UK."

3FM has tried to contact the DHSC for comment.