The future of Bedford, the largest disability service provider in South Australia, is in jeopardy following its decision to enter voluntary administration. 

The organization, which has been in operation for 80 years, providing employment to a large number of people with disabilities, mentioned unsustainable financial issues despite thorough discussions with both state and federal authorities. 

The likely entry into voluntary administration is scheduled for Sunday.

The announcement has triggered uncertainty for the 1400 people with disabilities across the state who rely on Bedford’s services. 

Workers have told 9News they see it as a vital social hub, and are hoping for a miracle so it can continue to operate.

Don Kearvell, whose daughter Alice has worked at Bedford since leaving high school, is deeply worried about the impending move into administration. 

“It’s going to be dramatic, not just for Alice, for anyone like her,” he said. 

“It’s self-esteem, it’s self-worth, she bounds out of bed every morning to go to work.”

For many people employed by Bedford, there are limited alternatives.

“She can’t, there’s no room in open employment for people like Alice,” Kearvell said.

“I would pay Bedford to have Alice come here.”

The chief executive released a statement noting that the “extent of the challenges to remain financially viable is complex and difficult for organizations to manage profitably”.

In a letter seen by 9News, Bedford says the state government needs the Commonwealth to fund at least half of the money to remain operational, and it won’t.

9News asked the federal government for a response, but it had no details about future funding. 

Premier Peter Malinauskas will meet with Bedford tomorrow.