The family said their biggest struggle of all was getting help from Inverclyde Council, when they finally asked for it.

BBC: Living life with Scotland's carers

Other members are Orkney Council leader Stephen Hagan, Inverclyde Council education convener Terry Loughran, East Lothian Council education convener Peter Mackenzie and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar chief executive Malcolm Burr.

BBC: New group to examine rural education in Scotland

Inverclyde Council said Thomas' care needs were regularly discussed and reviewed and that Thomas' needs, and the family's stress at times of crisis, were recognised and responded to promptly and positively regardless of the cost of resource.

BBC: Living life with Scotland's carers