Concerns about the future housing needs of disabled children have prompted urgent calls for action in Telford. At a recent meeting held at Telford & Wrekin Council, parents and young people emphasized the critical nature of the issue. The demand for housing in the area has surged by 20%, surpassing the national average, raising alarms about future accommodations for disabled individuals.
Councillor Liz Bickford-Smith raised inquiries regarding plans for supported living arrangements for adults with learning disabilities and difficulties during the meeting. The council responded by highlighting its commitment to addressing this concern. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the council developed 53 individual housing units across seven sites in the borough, reflecting their ongoing efforts to secure accommodation.
Parents expressed their worries about the future of their disabled children, particularly after they themselves can no longer provide care. Many individuals in their 70s face uncertainty about where their children will live once they are gone. The council's local plan includes a commitment to securing accommodation, but the process of implementing solutions is expected to take time.
Councillor Kelly Middleton, cabinet member for public health & healthier communities, acknowledged the community's concerns. She affirmed the council’s dedication to addressing these issues through strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.
"We have been campaigning with MPs and councillors to get something done." – another parent
The push for housing solutions is not limited to Telford alone; calls for homes have also been made in Newport, where similar concerns about the future of disabled children persist. Parents who attended the meeting voiced their determination to ensure their children's well-being even after they are no longer able to provide direct care.
