The UK Government has revealed the number of women travelling from the island for abortions dropped slightly in 2017 - but a charity has revealed a marked increase in those seeking help.

The number of women with Isle of Man addresses who travelled to England and Wales for abortions dropped to 84 last year, according to the UK Department of Health. That compares with 88 in 2016 and 105 in 2015.

However, the Abortion Support Network, a UK charity, has released its own figures showing a 25% increase in calls from the Isle of Man from women requiring advice and financial help toward the cost of travel and clinic fees.

The Campaign for Abortion Law Modernisation says this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Spokeswoman Stephanie Kelsey said: ’The Department of Health figures only show those women giving an Isle of Man address, not those who stay with friends or relatives in the area, or Isle of Man students accessing abortion services close to their place of study.

’It also doesn’t take account of what we believe are rising numbers of women who buy safe but currently illegal pills online.

’The very fact that this is illegal means there are no figures available.’

The Abortion Reform Bill has passed all its readings in the House of Keys and is now going through the Legislative Council.