The leader of the union Unite in the Isle of Man says there is a great deal of concern about plans to encourage vulnerable people to live independently.

Mick Hewer's comments follow the release of a policy document by the Department of Health and Social Security, which aims to shake-up the way government helps the elderly, and people with learning disabilities.

Mr Hewer appreciates that people want to live in their own homes for as long as possible, but is worried it could lead to job losses.

He says he has been contacted by many people who work in the care profession, and wants to know why the DHSS didn't give some warning to the unions before going public with its plans.

Mr Hewer believes it is a cost-cutting exercise, and says it needs to be handled carefully.

He told Manx Radio:

"Certainly, there is room out there for private sector care providers, but what I wouldn't want to see is a significant reduction in the public services.

"I wouldn't like to see things farmed off as a matter of course to the private sector."