A DISABLED teenager has received vital adaptations to his home – thanks to a Big Society-style campaign.

Businesses and residents clubbed together to fund a new bathroom for Jordan Cardy after Colchester Council could not help.

The 15-year-old, of Walnut Tree Way, Shrub End, has curvature of the spine and recently had two, nine-inch metal rods placed in his back to support it.

He needed a walk-in wet room on his return from hospital, as the rods prevent him getting in and out of a bath.

His grandmother and foster carer, Jennie Cardy, asked landlords, Colchester Borough Homes, to make the changes to the property.

But it was unable to help before the date of the operation.

Neighbour Marilyn Banyard, contacted bathroom supplier AKW, based in Worcestershire, which donated £2,500 of fittings.

Kind-hearted Colchester businesses and residents donated a further £900 for the wet room to be installed.

Mrs Cardy, 57, said: “I can’t thank Marilyn enough, and all those who helped.

“The new bathroom means Jordan can shower and I don’t have to help him.

“He is in a lot of pain and on a lot of medication, and will be on a certain amount of painkillers for the rest of his life.

“The rods in his back will be there for the rest of his life. He can’t turn his head to the left or raise his left arm properly.

“I just don’t know how we would have coped.’’ Mrs Banyard, 63, also of Walnut Tree Way, said: “It was a community effort.

“Everyone got involved, which was brilliant.

“Once I knew of Jordan’s situation, I went through the directory and found companies that provided bathrooms. “AKW not only did what I asked, but went above and beyond.’’ She added: “I think, generally, people shouldn’t have to dig deep to finance the work of public bodies.

“But in certain circumstances, as in Jordan’s case, I think people could see how much he needed it.

“They felt a lot of sympathy for him.”