A member's story

Merton group have been a lifeline to me and my family. Both myself and my children are autistic.

To be able to meet up with other local families via the Merton meet ups, events and the online platforms has been a gift. To be able to share ideas, let off steam, talk through worries, learn new things, gain knowledge and make friends with likeminded people and families that share the same experiences is unmeasurable.

The Merton group have made me and my family feel so welcome. Belonging makes me feel part of the local autistic community, and calm to know I can reach out for support. This makes me feel I’m not alone in the hard times which for an autistic mum is so empowering.
 
As an autistic adult diagnosed later in life, it has been wonderful to be able to meet other autistic people who understand me. This has helped me not only to learn more about myself, but also about my mental health, and to have a sense of belonging and to feel valued. 

It’s wonderful to see the Merton group growing and thriving and I’m really excited to see all the new meet-ups, family days and events that are being organised. I’m really excited for the future of our wonderful local autistic community. To have a group like this locally means the world to me and my family.

It helps families like mine, who would otherwise be lost in the system, alone and out of reach, to connect with the local community. I can’t thank the team enough.