A WOMAN who suffers from a condition similar to autism is planning to sue Preston Primary Care Trust and Lancashire social services for withdrawing her care.

Lydia Livingston, 27, who suffers from Asperger's syndrome, says her life has been a daily struggle since her care was withdrawn by the trust on April 2.

She claims that she also had care withdrawn from Lancashire County Council social services last year after a dispute over payment for the carers.

Now she is going to the small claims court in a bid to get £5,000 from the trust and social services to fund a carer until the issue can be solved.

"My life is a constant struggle since the trust withdrew the care at the start of April," said Lydia.

The syndrome means that she has problems with communicating and self confidence, easily gets lost and has trouble carrying out everyday tasks.

She said: "I have difficulties managing with tasks like doing the laundry, but nobody wants to take responsibility for my care."

Unwilling to spend time on complaints procedures, Lydia has decided to pursue the authorities for funding through the courts in the hope someone willtake notice of her case and hopes an inquiry might then be launched.

Brenda Nally, the northern regional coordinator for the National Autistic Society, said: "The problem with cases like Lydia is the way that it is assessed.

"People with Asperger's often do not fit the criteria for learning disabilities of mental health services."

A spokesman for Lancashire County Council said: "We cannot comment on individual cases.

"We are currently developing a policy to cover service provision for people with autism and Asperger's syndrome. We have recognised this is a national issue and are taking steps to address this at a local level."

A trust spokesman said: "The trust has arrangements in place to consider such issues.

"Mrs Livingstone's case has been considered fully and a decision made.

"While Mrs Livingston has put this in the hands of her solicitor, we are unable to comment further at this stage."