Monthly occupancy levels at the island’s acute in-patient mental health unit average 91.3%.

The £7.2 million Manannan Court, in the grounds of the Noble’s Hospital estate in Braddan, opened two years ago, replacing the previous in-patient unit at Grianagh Court.

In Tynwald last week, Julie Edge (Onchan) asked Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford for details on bed occupancy levels at the unit,

There are 26 beds available in Manannan Court. Fourteen are in the Harbour Suite, for adults between the ages of 18 and 64, with a further 12 in Glen Suite, for adults over the age of 65.

Mr Ashford said: ’The department records bed occupancy monthly in Manannan Court as part of the mental health service minimum data set.

’Occupancy levels in Manannan Court for the year since July 2018 range from 85% to 98%. Average occupancy for the year is 91.3%.’

He added: ’The NHS benchmarking network identified that in the UK bed occupancy averaged 94% in 2018.’

Ms Edge sought confirmation that no patients had been accommodated in the custody suite due to a lack of bed space.

Mr Ashford said: ’My understanding and the information I have in front to me is that has not happened, but if the member is aware of any incidents where it has I will be happy to take that information on board. But the information I have in front of me does not suggest that.’