A new residential nursing home in north Belfast has officially opened.

The home, located at Bradley Court, is for adults with learning disabilities and associated care needs.

Patients resettled from Muckamore Abbey Hospital will be among the residents of the home, which will also be open to admissions from the wider community.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: "I am acutely aware of the very real challenges and difficulties faced by people with learning disabilities, families and carers throughout this pandemic. As services restart, settings such as Bradley Court will play a vital role in keeping people with learning disabilities safe and living fulfilling lives.

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"It is important that people with a learning disability are supported to stay in their own home as long as possible. For those that require additional support, it is critical that we provide a meaningful choice on accommodation, ranging from services delivered in the family home, supported living arrangement and nursing homes.

"Bradley Court will support people with learning disabilities through tailored, positive and person-centred care. It is a viable housing option as part of the Muckamore resettlement programme."

Bradley Court has 11 private, apartment-style rooms with secure outdoor space and its aim is to provide a safe, homely and individualised living environment staffed by specialist nursing and care professionals.

The new facility has been developed by Gold Healthcare, part of the Healthcare Ireland Group.