Tom's Story – Christmas special

It’s been nearly two months now since I started living on my own.

It’s surreal – but one of the best things that has happened to me. In addition to some furniture, I was also able to buy a few decorative bits and pieces funded by Arc donations, so I could really make my flat feel like home.
 
I did find the second lockdown period quite difficult initially, as I was living with others during the first lockdown and hadn’t lived alone for several years before that. But I was able to keep in touch with them via regular phone and video calls, which helped to lift my spirits.
 
My placement at the local charity who provide day support for adults with learning disabilities has been going really well – so much so that they even offered me a part-time job for a few days a week, which is absolutely amazing. I love it; I have been able to improve my cooking skills and have met some really lovely people, all while earning some money which is a really rewarding feeling.

I’ve recently been practicing Christmas dinner for a very special occasion… I’ve been in regular contact with my son who will be coming to visit me on Christmas day for a few hours. It has been a slow process, and there is more work to do, but having the chance to rebuild my relationship with him is the best Christmas present I could have ever received.
 
In the new year I am hoping to start a new catering course at a local college where I can build upon the skills I’ve learnt at my new job – and hopefully get a qualification.

I am really hopeful for what 2021 may bring.

(Please note that names in this story have been changed for privacy purposes.)