Work has begun to construct a new ?2.2 million accommodation block for health and social care workers on the Noble’s Hospital estate in Strang.
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle, was joined by trustees of the Henry Bloom Noble Healthcare Trust to cut the first sod, marking the commencement of building works.
The development of three six terraced town houses will accommodate up to 48 residents and will replace two houses and the Nurses Home in Douglas, which are to be put on the market, with a combined value of ?1.8 million.
The offer of modern and comfortable accommodation, rented on a temporary basis, is an important factor in being able to compete with other jurisdictions when recruiting health and social care workers. Competition for experienced clinicians and care professionals is intense across the developed world and the new housing development will enhance the Island’s ability to attract key workers such as nurses and medics.
The availability of accommodation supports new employees relocating to the Island, enabling them to take up their posts without delay, offering support and flexibility whilst new starters establish themselves on the Island. Accommodation is also required for junior doctors, interview candidates and students.
The Minister said: “Following approval by Tynwald in July to build a new accommodation block, it has been a case of straight to work for the Department in progressing this important project. Our current accommodation at the nurses’ home in Douglas is not up to the required standard. We have to ‘up our game’ if we are to attract vitally needed health and social care professionals and reduce our reliance on temporary staff. I am confident that this new accommodation will help us to do exactly that.”
The facility will be named the Henry Bloom Noble Healthcare Trust Residence, in recognition of the Trust’s decision to give the site on which the current nurses’ home stands to the Department, allowing it to be sold and monies recouped to help fund the new development. Refurbishment of the existing nurses’ home was not technically feasible or financially viable.
The development will mean all of the Department’s staff accommodation will be located on the same site and in close proximity to Noble’s Hospital.
Work is expected to be completed by September 2017.
Pictured left to right: Terry Groves, Trustee; Ray Harmer, DHSC Member; Mike Harrington, DHSC Director of Estates; Howard Quayle, Minister for Health and Social Care; Mr Malcolm Clague, Trustee; David Quirk, DHSC Member; and Dr Alex Allinson, Trustee.
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