Manx Care announce temporary ward closure at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital

Martin Ward to shut at end of month following 'pest control issue' in roof space

Manx Care has announced that the Martin Ward at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital is to close towards the end of October for 'around four weeks'.

It says the measure 'follows a pest control issue restricted to part of the building’s roof space and is required to enable thorough and safe remedial works to take place'.

In the meantime, the healthcare body confirmed the 'affected area is currently being monitored daily by pest control contractors and enhanced cleaning schedules are in place'.

During the temporary closure, patients who would normally be cared for in Martin Ward will be relocated to Ward 19 at Noble’s Hospital (Ground Floor, West Wing).

Manx Care says this includes 'those requiring step-down care following an admission to Noble’s Hospital, as they work towards their rehabilitation goals'.

Staff will also move with patients to 'ensure continuity of care and maintain the highest standards'.

Affected patients and their families will be contacted prior to the move.

It confirmed all other services at the hospital will continue to operate as normal whilst the work takes place.

Meanwhile, Manx Care says the closure will enable planned works to be carried out by colleagues from the Department of Infrastructure including:

• Installation of new ceiling tiles
• Other structural improvements to enhance patient care and experience
• A comprehensive deep cleaning and inspection programme

Executive Director of Nursing for Manx Care, Sheila Lloyd said: “We recognise that this relocation may be difficult for some people visiting loved ones who would usually be in Ramsey.

"However, we hope that visitors understand the importance of maintaining a space that is conducive to recovery and wellbeing, and that this requires a temporary closure to reduce additional, unnecessary, inconvenience to patients while improvements are made."

Manx Care’s Chief Executive, Teresa Cope, added: “We are naturally very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause to patients, staff and visitors.

"We look forward to reopening such a valuable and important facility in the north of the Island as soon as works are completed.”

Manx Care says it will reopen Martin Ward 'as soon as possible following the temporary closure, and updates will be shared with patients, families and staff as progress continues'.

Manx Radio will be speaking to Ms Cope tomorrow morning regarding the temporary closure.