Tom’s Story – Part 3

Last month, part two of Tom’s story discussed his progress and transition into independent living at our Satellite accommodation. Read on for the conclusion…

Please note that names in this story have been changed for privacy purposes.
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I’ve been living in Arc’s satellite accommodation now for five months. It was hard to adjust to the independence at first, but I am feeling so much more confident and I am really enjoying my new lifestyle.
I still have a long way to go before I’m fully recovered, but I feel so much better in myself, and I’m already noticing a difference in my self-confidence. I’ve found comfort in cooking and have recently completed a food hygiene course. Now I’m looking at local catering college courses where I can gain further knowledge and, hopefully, get a qualification. If someone told me a year ago that I would be considering an education and pursuing something I love, I would never have believed them.


In the last month, I’ve also started volunteering for a local charity that provides day support for adults with learning disabilities, helping to prepare lunch for clients. Arc was able to provide me with a bike purchased through donated money so I can get to my placement quickly and easily. It’s helping me to build up my confidence in a professional environment, and will give me something to put on my CV.
 
One of the best things to happen to date is meeting my son again. I got the chance to explain myself, and while there is still a lot of work to do, I am confident that we can rebuild our relationship.
 
My Support Worker thinks that I’m ready to consider moving on and living on my own, so we’ve been looking at my options. It’s a daunting prospect, but I know that I can do it, especially with all I’ve achieved this year. It would be great to have a more private space so my son can come and visit me somewhere that I really can call home. But I will miss my housemates – they're like family.
 
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Last week I had a meeting with my Support Worker who referred me to a local housing association. My referral has been accepted, and I’ll be moving into my new flat next month. She’s helping me with making sure that I have everything I need, and I’m able to buy some new furniture funded by Arc donations. I’m so relieved – I was worried about how I would afford everything, especially a fridge and a cooker so I can continue with my passion for cooking. I can’t express how grateful I am to Arc for supporting me throughout my journey to where I am today. I’m looking forward to the start of my new life.