I was diagnosed with ASD and ADD when I was a young child. But managed life relatively okay, flowing through the typical steps. It wasn't until I reached adulthood that the challenges of obtaining and maintaining adequate accommodation became unbearable.
I work in London as a consultant, but my pay is insufficient (based on my ASD budgeting) to cover the city's high rent prices. As a result, I've lived in zone 3 locations for more affordable housing possibilities. However, the commute and lack of amenities in these places have made it challenging to strike a work-life balance. For a long time, I assumed this was how things were.
Recently, I have hit burnout as I spend most of my days in an office, stuck on trains, which can be testing for anyone. But the one place I want to decompress is my home. But the housing is just abhorrent. I pay silly rent for below-par housing in an objectively troubled, deprived area of London. For what? Poor quality housing, and to be followed and attacked on my return home at night.
I am just exhausted by the exploitation and the inconsideration of others. I want to come home and feel safe and at peace, but that feels impossible right now. The only housing support available to ASD people are supported living situations, which in my case is not applicable. I feel there is a missed opportunity, albeit optimistic, to include accessible, affordable housing in renting/new build policies. The lack of options for housing support for ASD individuals is disheartening. I have contacted charities, but none have responded to my queries.
If anyone has advice, please let me know.