I first joined CWL in 2021, having been diagnosed with Autism at the age of 18, nearly 19. The diagnosis was a huge change for me to adjust to and I received little to no support following this diagnosis (apart from being told by the psychologist who diagnosed me in my official report to just google Autism!). I really had no idea what to do with myself and found myself falling further into depression and anxiety, mainly because I was so lonely and barely understood myself.

When I came across CWL, I was drawn to it purely based on the fact that it meant I would be able to socialise with people who had similar experiences to me, something that I had never experienced before. I was unsure what to expect at first, as any support that I had received in the past hadn’t worked for me.

To say that CWL changed my life would be an understatement – I have met so many incredible people that have changed my life for the better and have made lifelong friends, something that I never believed to be possible. Without the support from Ollie, Bronwyn and Tina, I don’t think I would have had the motivation to stay in university, and am so proud of myself that I have managed to complete my social work university degree – I even have a job in the field now which I start in September, and that in itself is something that I could never picture happening.

I am truly appreciative of everything they have done for me and would suggest them to anybody with a diagnosis in need of an inclusive and friendly environment. We truly need more support for Autism, and CWL is providing just that, going above and beyond for all of us.