Manx Care and the DoI have secured an additional 38 emergency bed spaces to support those facing homelessness during TT.
The bed spaces have been found after concerns were raised over access to shelter during the fortnight.
DoI Minister Dr. Michelle Haywood confirmed the extra capacity includes “an assortment of hotels, guest houses, rooms in houses of multiple occupation, and supported accommodation for people with higher levels of need.”
She added, “The team have advised me they are currently managing a caseload of around 30, so there should be adequate provision to meet the need this year during the TT period.”
Vacant
The DoI is also providing five vacant properties—four requiring refurbishment and one adapted for disabilities—as temporary housing.
The adapted property will later house a disabled household from July or August but is being used in the interim to prevent it standing empty.
Jason Moorhouse MHK raised concerns over property conditions, questioning whether promised deep cleans had been carried out.
Dr Haywood said: “Manx Care have advised us that the DoI properties have been subject to a deep clean or thorough cleaning by their staff.”
Temporary residents are accommodated under short-term licence agreements, with stays typically lasting two to three months.
“The terms allow immediate termination if needed, such as for poor behaviour or if long-term housing becomes available,” Dr. Haywood explained.
Chris Thomas noted the scheme builds on past efforts, including a 2022 winter homelessness response.
Dr Haywood emphasised the DoI’s commitment but did not compare private and public sector provisions, stating the focus was on DoI-managed properties.
The expanded support aims to ensure no one is left without shelter during the TT fortnight, while longer-term housing solutions are progressed.
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