91Èȱ¬

A mother fears a planned review of specialist school services could "have a devastating impact on a generation".

Jennifer's son George, 15, who has autism, stays over at his Cheshire school once a week.

The mum, who has gathered a 1,700-strong petition, said the residential service at four schools boosts independence.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) is reviewing funding for the scheme.

"The fact that he's even able to stay away from home was a huge step, and now he's done things like surprise me by making me a cup of tea, making his own breakfast," Jennifer, from Nantwich, said.

"He's getting more confident, he's trying new things, so it's the first taste he's had of believing that his future could be one where he is independent."

Jennifer said she started the petition because she "wanted to show that special needs families here in Cheshire really care about the provision for our kids".

The petition has been handed into the council and Jennifer is due to speak at council meetings in the coming weeks.

"We know that services are already overstretched and underfunded... any further funding cuts would have a devastating impact on a generation of special needs kids across Cheshire," she said.

Cheshire West and Chester Council said there was "no proposal by the council to close the provisions".

"We have recently engaged with our special schools that receive funding from us to provide an extended day to pupils to understand their offer and school staff and parents of children who access the services were asked to share their views," the authority said.

"Information is currently being gathered as part of the review and we are committed to keeping schools and parents informed on our next steps once we have a clear picture."

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