THE mum of a 19-year-old wheelchair user who wanted a ramp installed at their home says the family were told by Castle Point Council “she has no need to go in her garden”.

Phoebe Smith suffers from Friedrich’s ataxia, which causes progressive damage to the nervous system.

The teenager, of Eastway, Canvey, is wheelchair-bound for most of the day, and her family had hoped having a ramp installed in the garden would give her additional freedom.

But despite several visits from Castle Point Council and surveyors, the family say they were shocked to be told their daughter didn’t need to go in the garden.

Mum, Amanda Preston, 47, said: “Originally the occupational therapist recommended a ramp and a flat access patio door, which was great news, but that was last July, and he said we should have the plan with us within two weeks. We had been told the funding was secured, but everything has disappeared.

“I really don’t know what is going on, but it is another year and she is still unable to go in her own garden, she is just left staring out the window.

“She does spend a lot of time alone at the moment, and she really does need this.”

The rare condition affects just one in 50,000, and Phoebe was diagnosed just two years ago, meaning she is still coming to terms with the life-long condition.

Phoebe spends a large amount of her time inside due to her lack of mobility, and spends large amounts of time alone while the family work. The family had hoped that the installation of a ramp would give her the extra freedom which could make the world of difference. Mrs Preston added: “She needs a little independence really, and just being able to take herself out into the fresh air would do that. She barely leaves the house at the moment and it is quite upsetting. She was only diagnosed at 17, so she is still coming to terms with the condition.”

Castle Point Council believes the issue does not fall under their remit, but found an email on the system stating it is no longer standard practice to offer access to the garden unless there are a number of mitigating factors. Essex County Council is aware of the situation, and is set to conduct an investigation to try to resolve the issue.