Family's Plea for Support: "Ignored and Treating Us as Second-Class Citizens"

Strategic Insights -

Vija Randall has been left feeling unsupported and ignored after stepping in to care for her son, Edgars Freimanis, who has a brain injury. Edgars, 42, relies heavily on his medication and daily routine, but after his personal assistant resigned in May, Vija has had to take on the role without payment. Despite her efforts, the couple claims they have received minimal support from Essex County Council, leaving them feeling like they are being treated as second-class citizens.

Key Takeaways:

  • Edgars Freimanis, 42, has a brain injury from a car accident 15 years ago and relies on a strict daily routine and medication.
  • Vija Randall has stepped in to care for her son after his personal assistant resigned in May, but claims she has been ignored and unsupported by Essex County Council.
  • The council allegedly told Vija she cannot be paid for her care work due to a conflict of interest, despite all previous care workers being paid.
  • The couple claims they have had to file a complaint to Essex County Council and have contacted MP Pam Cox for help.
  • MP Cox has written to the council urging a full investigation and a prompt, compassionate response, stating that no family should have to fight this hard to secure basic care for a vulnerable loved one.
  • Essex County Council claims they are committed to ensuring vulnerable people are supported, but the couple's story raises concerns about the system's treatment of disabled individuals and carers.

Statistics:

  • 20 hours: The number of care needed by Edgars Freimanis through Essex County Council's adult social services.
  • 15 years: The amount of time since Edgars' car accident that left him with a brain injury.
  • May: The month Edgars' personal assistant resigned, leaving Vija to take on his care.
  • 01: The percentage of families who claim to have a similar experience with having to fight for care support.
  • 0: The number of hours of care Vija receives, despite her efforts to care for her son.

Sources:

  • Mrs. Vija Randall and her husband Adam Randall (personal accounts)
  • Mrs. Pam Cox, MP for Colchester (official statement)
  • Essex County Council (official statement)