MORE than 35,000 people have called on the government to provide better long-term support for disabled people and their families in a petition handed to 10 Downing Street today.

The petition by disability charity Sense demands the government make it compulsory that councils ensure disabled people aged 25 and over are supported to have a plan in place for their future care and support.

Nearly 70 per cent of families caring for disabled adults with complex needs live in fear of what will happen to their loved one when they are no longer able to provide support, according to Sense.

Only one in four councils are able to support disabled people and their carers to make contingency plans for future care options.

One in three local authorities are aware of how many disabled adults are currently bring cared for by family and friends in their area.

Sense chief executive Richard Kramer said they hope the government invests in social care to combat the “crisis” and tackle the pressures families face.

“It’s time that disabled adults and their families receive the right support at the right time and in the most appropriate setting,” he said.