A disabled man who has no use of his arms or legs was told by his local council that it would be cutting his full-time care... but has now triumphed against its "dangerous" ruling.
Mitchell Salter had always received full-time care as an adult, as he's unable to complete everyday tasks by himself due to the nature of his disability.
However, the 32-year-old from Bliston was told unexpectedly by his local council that it would be cutting his care to only six hours a day from next month.
Wolverhampton City Council, which originally informed Mitchell that it would be withdrawing his full-time care after a review found a "change in his circumstances", has now reversed this decision.
Mitchell, who was born with arthrogryposis, uses a wheelchair and has no use of his arms or legs, usually has a full-time, live-in carer, and said he was left feeling scared and vulnerable when he learned that his council had decided to take that away.
He told Birmingham Live: "They do all my cooking, cleaning, washing, ironing. I have never lived on my own. It would create anxiety, fear, stress, and depression if I am left by myself, especially at night.
He continued: "I can't use my hands at all. If I have an accident it would mean I would struggle a lot more than anyone else. If anything happens or someone breaks in I would be on my own. I also need someone to help me outside because I can't go out on my own.
"They offered equipment, such as telecare and door technology, but if I am injured or sick, I will not be able to access the technology properly due to my lack of mobility, especially if I am sick or injured."
When initially hearing the council’s decision to strip him of full-time care, Mitchell was so angry he prepared to take legal action. However, the council withdrew its ruling after he approached Birmingham Live to share his story.
Mitchel said he was relieved when found out the council had made a U-turn, but admitted he was "still hacked-off with the way they behaved".
Wolverhampton City Council released a statement saying: "The council can confirm that Mr Salter’s care package won't be reduced.
"We will continue to work closely with Mr Salter to support his independence and ensure his long-term social care requirements are met."
