An elderly couple say their 44-year old son Tony Hickmott has been "held prisoner" in a hospital for 20 years despite inquires from members of parliament, numerous advocacy groups, and the parents' petitions. 

Pam Hickmott, 78-years old, and Roy Hickmott, 81-years old, can only drive the more than 100-mile drive to see their son once a week. Pam said, "I'd like to take my dinner down to him and give him it."

She was only allowed to talk to the press after Sky News challenged a gag order. Pam said, "Tony deserves to come home 

His condition has only deteriorated. He is the longest held autistic patent in a hospital. 

Both elderly parents state they are exhausted. Roy said, "I just can't do another winter. I'm not coping. I've had it. I am at the end."

Chronology

1997: Tony went into institutional care aged 21.

2001: Tony was sent to a secure inpatient hospital which was only supposed to be for nine months.

2008: The hospital placed him in segregation - a form of isolation.

2013: Twelve years after he was first admitted Tony was considered "fit for discharge".

2019: Court of Protection proceedings begin to look for care in the community for Tony but still no resolution has been found.