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Terrified about upcoming eviction as an autistic 30 year old.

NAS91600

Hi everyone,

I'm a 30-year-old autistic man living in Northern Ireland, and I'm in a really stressful and uncertain housing situation. I’m hoping others here have been through something similar and can offer insight or reassurance.

Right now, I’ve been told I have to leave the house I’m currently in. My landlord plans to clear out the property, and I’ve been given notice — officially by July 31st, though I can stay physically until the end of August. I’m completely overwhelmed.

I'm working with Autism Initiatives – they sent a referral on my behalf, and I’m supposed to have a meeting Monday or Tuesday, but it’s not clear yet what that will lead to. I’ve heard they’ve helped others get housing or support, but I haven’t started with them properly yet. I’m also linked in with NIHE, and my housing officer (Daniel) will likely interview me soon.

A few of my concerns:

I live alone and don’t do well in shared environments like hostels. I'm terrified I’ll be forced into one.

I have autism and mental health challenges, and I need a quiet, stable space – ideally a supported or single-let setup.

I have a cat named Basil who means the world to me, and I’m scared of losing him through this upheaval.

I’m unsure what kind of points I’ll get on the housing list, and if autism counts as a learning difficulty for points.

I’ve listed my GP (Bovally) and been honest on the referral forms about everything, including mental health.

Has anyone here been through this with Autism Initiatives or NIHE?

Did they help you avoid a hostel?

How long did things take once the ball started rolling?

I’m genuinely trying to stay hopeful, but it’s very hard. I just want a roof over my head, support, and to keep Basil with me. Any advice, experiences, or even just some kind words would help.

Parents

  • Under the Equality Act 2010 you are classed as disabled and therefore vulnerable and entitled to increased protection from homelessness.  It sounds like so far you are contacting people who can help you.   In the meantime to help you get more information, you can contact/look on the websites for Shelter and Citizens Advice.   

    A crucial thing to note:  If your landlord doesn't live with you, you do not have to leave the property until a Court tells you so.  Given your needs, the Court will have to take this into consideration.   While you are a tenant, it is illegal for a landlord to break into your home and change the locks.  Courts take this very seriously and can fine landlords for doing this. 

    I urge you to get a ring doorbell or set up a camera when you have to leave for everyday tasks so you always have evidence if your landlord does anything illegal/harrassing.  Keep evidence if you can of your landlord saying/texting ableist/discriminatory things to you.  All this will help when it comes to providing evidence for the Court.  Always:  if you feel unsafe or in danger from your landlord, call the Police and tell them what is happening and that you are disabled.

    Local Authority Housing departments have a duty to make sure they take your needs into consideration, so when making an application for homelessness, make sure you include all the documents relating to the people who are supporting you.  If your autistic needs are being ignored and rejected in your first housing application, ask for a review with a Senior Housing Officer stating you believe you are being indirectly discriminated against because your needs have not been taken into consideration, when other's disabilities are taken more seriously than yours on the housing list.

    I did this and I have what I need now.  Don't take no for an answer, best of luck :)

  • in reply to dopamineplz

    in addition, your landlord's current frequent unannounced visits appear to be causing you distress and is interfering with your peace and comfort in your home.  This is illegal and here's a useful page with information relevant to Northern Ireland  https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/protection-against-eviction

  • in reply to dopamineplz

    Thank you for this. I'll look at it and talk to the woman from autism initiatives too 

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