Lampeter mum's fears if disabled son forced to leave day centre

Lampeter mum's fears if disabled son forced to leave day centre

Rory White has found solace at a day centre, where he has felt at home for 17 years, engaging in activities like cooking, swimming, and shopping. Unfortunately, the 39-year-old faces the possibility of being uprooted from this familiar environment simply because of a move he made seven miles away. After his father passed away from cancer, Rory’s mother, Diane, relocated to a more suitable home over a county border but stayed relatively close to the day centre he cherishes.

Despite Carmarthenshire council’s willingness to continue funding Rory’s attendance at the day centre, Ceredigion council has made the “difficult decision” to cease his access to the facility. Diane is deeply concerned about the impact this decision will have on Rory, who has cerebral palsy and has been a regular at Canolfan Steffan in Lampeter. She emphasized that removing him from the day centre, where he is familiar with everyone, would be devastating for him.

The uncertainty surrounding Rory’s future placement is unsettling for both him and his family. Rory expressed his fear of missing his friends and the activities he enjoys at Canolfan Steffan. His sister, Abby, highlighted the stress this situation is causing Rory and the family as a whole. Despite potential alternative placements being considered, the lack of clarity and the distant location of some options add to the distress.

Local political figures have voiced their support for Rory and his family as they navigate this challenging situation. The chair of Ceredigion council, as well as the local MP, have expressed concern over the decision made regarding Rory’s access to the day centre. While the councils involved cite resource restrictions and the need to prioritize residents of Ceredigion, calls for collaboration and a focus on meeting Rory’s specific needs have emerged. The Welsh government has emphasized the importance of local authorities working together to ensure continuity of care for individuals like Rory who may move across boundaries

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