Disabled student forced to leave college course

A funding row is threatening a disabled student's dreams after she withdrew herself from her course in a fit of tears.

Chelsea Winters, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when she was 11 months old, quit her business course at East Surrey College last week after being told she could not longer get the care she required.

Her future now depends on whether the college and Tandridge Social Services can find the money to pay for a full-time carer to accompany Chelsea while she is on site at Claremont Road, Redhill.

The 19-year-old's condition means she is perfectly able to work and study on site, but needs help with her mobility during breaks.

Chelsea, of Carlton Road, South Godstone, said: "All I want to do is finish my course and lead a normal life.

"I have the best group of friends on my course. It has been great as, for the first time, I have been part of the mainstream and not been made to feel different to anyone else.

"I just want to have the same chance as everyone else.

"I don't know why I suddenly can't have the help I need when it was OK for the past two years."

Chelsea's mother Mandy, 47, said her daughter "cried all her way through the Christmas period" as her future remained in the balance.

She said: "When I heard Chelsea's carer was going to be taken away I was absolutely furious. What do they think they are doing?

"She's such a pretty and intelligent girl. She just needs help with getting around.

"After going to a special needs-only secondary school, she has absolutely loved being part of mainstream education.

"They have offered to send work to her at home, but it is not the same and she has already missed so much."

The part-time media sales worker is debating whether to apply again this summer in an attempt to finish her three year course.

When the Mirror contacted East Surrey College they confirmed they were in discussions with the County Council in attempt to keep Chelsea on.

A college spokeswoman said: "Chelsea Winters is a valued student and is provided with additional learning support by the College to assist her with her studies.

"The personal care, which she also requires, is provided through Tandridge Social Services and we are aware there have been some issues related to this.

"We are doing our best to work with both Tandridge Social Services and Chelsea to find a solution to enable her to continue with her studies."

Surrey County Council were unable to comment as the Mirror were going to press.