Teen with cerebral palsy ‘abandoned’ by 150-mile trip to only complex needs college
A Scottish family has spoken out about feeling “abandoned” by the government after they were unable to send their daughter, Morgan, to Scotland’s only complex needs college. Dawn and Barry Neilson, residents of Burntisland, Fife, decided against a daily 120-mile round trip for 18-year-old Morgan, who lives with cerebral palsy, to attend Corseford College in Renfrewshire. The college is the sole dedicated further education facility for young people with complex needs in Scotland.
The Neilsons expressed their disappointment with the lack of options and support for Morgan once she finished high school. Barry Neilson expressed frustration, stating, “We just feel abandoned by the government. The minute they don’t legally have to provide, they just abandon all the kids.” He emphasised the need for colleges tailored to young adults with special needs, highlighting the inequality in educational opportunities compared to mainstream students.
Due to the unfeasible distance to Corseford College, Morgan currently attends Capability Scotland’s Upper Springland campus in Perth, a facility that does not cater to her specific educational requirements. This situation is not unique to Morgan, as many young adults with complex needs across Scotland face limited access to specialized further education facilities. The 38 students currently enrolled at Corseford College also risk losing out on such crucial dedicated provision in the absence of continued funding.
As Corseford College nears the end of a pilot scheme with the Scottish Government, uncertainties loom over the future of funding and the establishment of satellite centres across the country. Brian Logan, Chief Executive of Capability Scotland, urged the Scottish Government to commit to sustained funding to expand provision for young people with complex needs, akin to the recent investment in special needs education in England.
In response, a Scottish Government spokesperson highlighted the importance of supporting young people with disabilities and additional needs as they transition from school to work or training. The government has allocated over £1 million to Capability Scotland for the Corseford pilot, focusing on therapies and life-skills development. An independent evaluation of the pilot will inform future strategies for specialist provision in the sector.
The Neilson family’s plight sheds light on the disparities in further education opportunities for individuals with complex needs in Scotland compared to other parts of the UK. Their call for greater support and inclusivity resonates with many families facing similar challenges. The need for sustained funding and comprehensive provision for young adults with special needs is paramount to ensure equitable access to education and support beyond school.
**Insights and Summary:**
The story of Morgan and her family showcases the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with complex needs in accessing suitable further education provision in Scotland. The lack of specialised colleges and the logistical hurdles families like the Neilsons encounter highlight the need for sustained funding and comprehensive support systems. The call for greater inclusivity and tailored educational opportunities for young adults with special needs is a reminder of the importance of creating a more equitable and accessible education system. As the Scottish Government navigates the future of provision for individuals like Morgan, ensuring adequate resources and initiatives are in place will be crucial in addressing existing inequalities and fostering a more supportive environment for all learners.