A 23-YEAR-OLD man with Asperger’s syndrome has made a heartfelt appeal against "devastating" council cuts planned for adult social care services.

Fraser Caygill - who has a form of autism affecting social interaction and behaviour - filmed himself discussing his fears for the future if East Sussex County Council imposes changes in April. The cuts need to be made in order to make £40 million of savings in the department's budget by March 2019, the council said.

In the video Mr Caygill said he was "devastated" to hear of the cuts which could affect a number of charities he uses like Culture Shift, Stay Out Late, Community Links, Autism Sussex and Zest among others.

He said: "I would be lost without this support. It would be a mega shame because they help people to develop their confidence in things like music, dance, drama, creative artwork and helping people get into work. You feel you can be yourself, be with people who understand you. It has helped my confidence.

"In mainstream society it's a lot more difficult, there is a lot of pressure."

Both Mr Caygill and his 18-year-old brother Elliot have learning disabilities and live near their mother Jane in Eastbourne.

Mrs Caygill launched a petition in the wake of the threat of cuts which more than 250 people have signed so far.

She is concerned the cuts will mean those in a crisis will lose out on the help they need.

The 53-year-old said: "People are feeling really helpless. I have fought long and hard to access services for my sons. They help people to socialise when they are at risk of becoming isolated and depressed. "The services have really boosted their confidence and helped them to express themselves."

She fears sheltered and supported housing schemes for those with learning disabilities could also be at risk.

Another petition, entitled East Sussex County Council: Don't let the funding cuts squeeze Zest Sussex dry, is also calling for support. Launched by the directors of the Zest Sussex community interest company which trains adults with learning disabilities or autism, they hope to get 5,000 signatures of support and have already received more than 3,000.

In a public consultation open for comment until December 18, the council admits the cuts will make it a "difficult time" for those who need the help, carers, families, staff and volunteers.

The document said: "This means making difficult decisions about which adult social care services we continue to invest in. We know that many people who use the services will be affected by the savings we need to make."

People concerned about the cuts have until December 18 to tell the council what they think of the proposals.

Drop-in sessions to discuss them are also taking place on Monday at Seaford Head School, Steyne Road, Seaford, on Thursday at The Studio Room, De La Warr Pavilion, Marina, Bexhill, both from 6pm to 7.30pm, and on Friday at Robertsbridge Village Hall, Station Road, Salehurst, Robertsbridge from 5pm to 6.30pm.

To sign both petitions click here and click here