'The carers are his friends, his life... we'd be heartbroken if this was taken away'

A 35-year-old man with the mental age of a toddler could be left without the round-the-clock care he needs.

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE

James Hewitt, from Llandudno, lives with severe autism, learning disabilities, epilepsy and challenging behaviour. He also has mobility issues.

A North Wales care charity that transformed his life may be forced to close as it struggles with funding shortfalls.

James’ father, Dr Jim Hewitt, said the loss of its support would be would be “devastating” for his severely disabled son.

For years, Dr Jim Hewitt and wife Angela struggled to find suitable support until two years ago when charity Anheddau took over. James has since found the stability and relationships that have given him “happiness for the first time in his life”

Dr Hewitt, a former Ysgol y Gogarth headteacher, who later became an inspector of special schools, said his son has thrived since he moved into supported accommodation in Colwyn Bay.

The move was facilitated by Anheddau.

“Before, we'd been disappointed with other providers,” said Dr Hewitt. “But Anheddau’s approach was completely different, the package of care they offered fitted James perfectly.

“Their staff treat him with love and dedication, and he now sees them as family. We would be heartbroken if that was taken away.”