I’m 21 and I have Asperger’s.  Growing up I always knew I was a bit different and sadly I always felt like everyone was out to get me, either that or they just ignored me.  I always felt unsafe so I wouldn’t ever mix with others. I wasn’t sociable at all.  When I was about 12 it took its toll on my mental health I felt as if I was sat in a bubble.  I decided to ignore everyone else around me because that’s what they did to me.  Growing up was hard.

 

Earlier this year I was kicked out of home.  I literally had nowhere to go.  I contacted the council’s out of hours housing service and I was referred to Key.  Since then I’ve been back and forth from my mum’s house and have been sleeping mainly in my car whilst I wait for a property to come up that is suitable.  My Asperger’s diagnosis isn’t on my medical records so the local authority do not consider me to be a priority.  Key are helping me get a new diagnosis and have helped me get on the waiting list for housing.

 

At Key’s offices I am able to use their facilities every day.  I can use their toilets, have a shower, wash my clothes and get some food.  I also get to chat with the staff there.  Everyone has been great.

 

I usually park my car on one of the supermarkets because they are open 24 hrs.   I use my Universal Credit to keep the car going, it’s the only thing I have.   I’ve learnt where to park each day to stay safe.  Often I feel weak and low.   Carol at Key has been great, she supports me and advises me like telling me to go to the doctors when I am down.

 

As soon as I get my own place I am literally going to go to sleep for 24 hours.  I know that soon I will be safe.  Once I am in my own flat I’ll be able to relax, breathe and think about everything, about what I am going to do with the rest of my life.  For now it’s important I follow a routine for the day and wait. I’ve also spoken to an employment coach at Key who has helped me with my CV and will help me find work once I am settled.

 

Knowing Key is here for me now makes me sigh with relief, for once in my life I know I am not alone.