Family desperate for Torus garden alterations for disabled son

With a son who has downs syndrome, autism, and a heart defect, Tracey Valentine-Smith asked Torus for special alterations when moving into a property on Oppenheim Avenue in Grange Park last year, but this extra support has not been forthcoming.

Due to Tracey and her husband's age and health issues, they have not been able to fix the issues relating to the garden, and as they believe that the area is unsafe, their son Ethan has been stuck indoors and struggling all summer.

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Tracey says she has struggled to fix the issues in the garden (Image: Tracey Valentine-Smith) With issues including overgrown grass and weeds, broken trees and branches, and left behind flags and fences, Tracey said she has consistently asked for support and garden alterations from Torus, but feels that she is being ignored.

As Ethan is now 22 and out of education, his mum said he has struggled without a routine as well as being unable to play in the garden.

Torus says that it is procedure for Tracey and her partner to undertake an Occupational Therapy Assessment with St Helens Council, before they can make a decision on property adaptations.

There has been left behind fences and flags, as well as broken trees and branches (Image: Tracey Valentine-Smith) Tracey, 62, said: "Our son has downs syndrome, autism seizures, and a heart defect. At the moment he is not at college as the next step is a day care centre but he’s not ready for them. So it’s up to us to entertain him, but not having a safe garden means he is inside most days. 

"I am heartbroken as I wouldn’t sign for the property at first. I took one look at the garden and I thought there is no way I can sort this garden out on my own. 

"Our lovely neighbours helped me to chop down four big trees and I have tried my best with the grass and weeds, but it all needs levelling off so we can put grass or flags down, so I can make a safe place for our son. 

"Being the age we are we just physically can’t do it. Plus my husband doesn’t keep well anymore so it’s all left to me, and we certainly don’t have the money to pay someone to do the garden as you are talking thousands to put it right.

"My mental health isn’t great and I am trying to hold everything together but it’s so hard to do on your own."

Tracey feels that the garden is unsafe for her sons (Image: Tracey Valentine-Smith) Housing Services Director at Torus, Jan Calland, said: “We have worked closely with Mrs Valentine-Smith to provide advice and assistance and are sympathetic to her needs.

“Before any adaptations to help the family live more comfortably can be considered, an Occupational Therapy Assessment from St Helens Borough Council is needed so one of our housing officers is now helping Mrs Valentine-Smith formally apply and we will continue to support her through this process.”