Visitor ban lifted in five care homes

Some residential care homes are easing visitor restrictions from today.

It comes after a visitor ban was put in place following "increased levels of community transmission".

Manx Care said five of its homes are now opening their doors between 10am and 7pm, although restrictions will still apply for the next fortnight. 

While there are no time limits, visitors will need to book in advance, have their temperature taken on arrival and wear PPE.

Although visitors are still being asked to take a lateral flow test in advance, this is now optional.

Head of Adult Services, Jonathan Carey said: "We’ve made some great progress in the past couple of weeks, and I’d like to extend my thanks to all relatives, friends and staff who have been patient and followed the phased re-opening.

He added: "We’re very happy to be in a position to move to the second phase of opening and ease some of these restrictions, which I know will come as a relief to many residents, friends and family".

The homes easing restrictions today are:

Southlands- Port St Mary
Cummal Mooar- Ramsey
Langness/Gansey- Port St Mary
Thie Meanagh/Sweetbriar- Douglas
Reayrt Skyal- Ramsey

Manx Care said the guidance will be reviewed in 2 weeks.