A young person with severe learning difficulties has been given a place at a specialist educational needs school after a county council U-turn.

Denny Black, four, of Hensingham was initially denied a place at Whitehaven’s Mayfield School and was faced with attending a mainstream school, despite having highly complex needs.

An ongoing Special Educational Needs and Disability provision crisis in West Cumbria means there is not enough funding to meet demand for the places needed.

Our readers were happy to hear the success story and shared their own struggles with autism provision in Cumbria.

His mum Karen said: “It’s not just about their education and that’s what I think a lot of people miss.

“That kind of environment Mayfield can offer – it affects all aspects of their future.”

Laura McManus said: “I’m so happy for the whole family. Denny is a lovely little boy who needs to be in a place that suits his needs. I’m so thankful the battle has finally been won!”

Janine Nene Gagan said: “So happy for you Karen and Denny. A massive relief I bet.”

Eivor Clayton said: “It shouldn’t have to take an appeal at all but congratulations Denny, he’ll have the most enhanced education catered to his needs now.”

Victoria McKenna said: “Exactly what we are going through at the moment.

“They have denied my son a place and he is facing mainstream school which we won’t be sending him to.

She added: “He will just be home educated until a time where hopefully we manage to get him a place in a suitable place for his needs."

Victoria said: “Absolutely awful what people with special needs kids have to go through just to try and get the help their children need.”