The father of a 23-year-old man with autism has appealed to President Nikos Christodoulides to intervene, saying his son has been left at home without access to an appropriate care structure after completing his education at a special school.
Speaking to Politis radio, Dinos Charalambous said the absence of a suitable placement has disrupted his son's routine and placed significant strain on the family.
'Structured support is like oxygen'
Charalambous said special schools provide children with autism access to a structured programme that includes speech therapy, occupational therapy and other activities.
"Children with autism need a structured framework. It's like oxygen," he said.
He warned that the sudden loss of a daily routine can have serious consequences for people on the autism spectrum.
'No suitable solution has been offered'
Charalambous disputed statements by Education Minister Athina Michaelidou that a placement had been offered and rejected by the family.
According to him, a day-care centre was considered but was not suitable for his son's needs.
He added that a specialist autism centre currently has a waiting list of around 12 people.
"When something does not meet the needs, it is not an option," he said.
He noted that discussions are continuing with the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare in an effort to find a solution.
Seeking a temporary extension
The father said he is not asking for the age limit of 22 for special education to be abolished.
Instead, he wants a temporary arrangement allowing young adults to remain in special schools when the state has not yet provided an appropriate alternative.
According to Charalambous, establishing a new facility could take at least a year.
"This gap was not created by my child or any other child. It is a gap created by the state."
'I risk losing my job'
Charalambous said family members must now remain constantly at home with the 23-year-old, affecting their ability to work.
"The child is at home, and we cannot work. I risk losing my job and my income."
In emotional remarks, he added:
"My child is crying for help, and as a parent I cannot help him."
He called on the President to intervene and said he had been informed by the Education Minister that nine other families have submitted similar requests seeking temporary extensions for children who have reached the school-age limit.
