Why Trix Came to Us
Trix’s parents moved out of the family house into a canal boat and there wasn’t any room for her. They encouraged her to find somewhere else, but there was not any affordable accommodation available close to family. Her mum suggested YMCA MK as she had heard good things and phoned to see if they could support her. Trix still sees her family regularly, they visit, and she goes there and enjoys seeing the dogs. If anything moving to YMCA MK has improved her relationship with her family as it has taken some of the stress and arguments away.
‘I am better here because the stress isn’t there in our relationship anymore. She can just be my mum, and hear about important things that are going on in my life. Our relationship and the relationship with my stepdad has really improved.’
‘One of the best things for my mum when I came here is that YMCA did all the heavy lifting for her. She doesn’t have to do so much for me anymore and that means our relationship is more like a regular mum-daughter relationship. I just phone her now to tell her what I’ve been doing.’
Trix’s Journey with the YMCA
When Trix came to us, she was working at a robot café, which she enjoyed at first. But as time went on she felt like she had no support and no voice. Shortly after lock down the café informed Trix and all the staff they were letting them go via voice note.
It was hard looking for work and this seriously affected her mental health. With encouragement from the activities team, she took up boxing, the gym and art pebble work. She also sought support from the YMCA with help applying to the council for benefits and additional help. In addition, Trix threw herself more into her Cosplay and costume designing. These activities have really boosted her confidence and self-esteem, and she enjoys them to this day.
Thankfully, a few months later, she found a temporary Christmas job at Typo, where she felt valued and included. Trix loved her time at Typo and would have liked to have stayed on, but they didn’t have any longer-term availability. They did however take the time to sit down with Trix before her contract ended to thank her for her hard work, for which she was very grateful.
Thanks to the confidence gained through this positive working experience, Trix found a job at the Body Shop where she works 8 hours a week. She enjoys her job and finds it very supportive.
She is now working with the housing team and has found them incredibly supportive, helping her look for move on housing and just being there to talk.
What the YMCA Means to Trix
‘The YMCA helps to defend and support people with disabilities. They help us to achieve so much… This relieves a lot of stress. It has really helped me and I would like to be a voice for and help other young people with autism or who are suffering with their mental health.’
