I had a wonderful experience today which I'd like to share with you all. First a little background to set the scene...
I have been desperately anxious about my finances over the past few weeks. My benefit claims seem to be taking forever to process, and I've been living off what little remained in my current account since my last job ended.
I managed eventually to find the pass-book for an old savings account that I haven't used for many years. However, the personal details on the account were hopelessly out of date, and I find it hard to ID myself as I have no passport, driving licence etc.
As usual, I left everything until the last possible moment. I've been prevaricating and procrastinating for weeks now - until realising earlier in the week that my current account was only good for maybe another week of food.
I went to my local branch of the bank this morning to see if someone could help me to sort this mess out. For the first time ever, I made it clear from the beginning that I am autistic.
The woman I saw immediately arranged for us to go to a quieter room, calmly sorted out the problem while carefully explaining everything that she was doing, and I now have an arrangement that will see me through another few months while DWP get their act together.
When I went to thank her for her kindness at the end, I immediately burst into an uncontrollable flood of tears. She went and got me a drink, and arranged that I could stay in the room until I felt strong enough to cope with the journey home.
A letter is now in the post to her superiors commending her for her patience, understanding and kindness.
I'm crying again now just writing about it. I cannot think of a better example of how the right attitude from staff can make dealing with authority so much easier for autistic people.
