Sue Kuzmic, of Harleston, was informed by Norfolk County Council's Children's Services department her son Carl, 11, will not be able to continue his visits to the Break charity's Rainbow Holiday Centre in Sheringham.

Council spokesman Kate Gooding said because Carl, who has Tetrasomy 18p Syndrome, spends one night each week at a respite centre and two hours a week with a carer, it would be unsettling for him to spend a week in another care venue.

"We do not believe it is in his best interests to receive care at three separate settings," she said. "This is because we feel it can be unsettling for young people to have a high number of different carers."

But Mrs Kuzmic said she resented being told what was best for her son and that the week's care was important for both Carl and the rest of the family.

She claims the council has stopped the respite care for financial reasons, saying Carl always enjoys his time in Sheringham and does not display unsettled behaviour upon his return.

Mrs Kuzmic said: "It really adds to the pressure you are under as a parent – you are constantly fighting for education and social services help.

"Even a week's break is precious to him and to us."

Mrs Gooding said: "We believe this decision is in Carl's best interests and will continue to support both him and his family with the high level of respite care he receives each week."