Week 11 Evidence Checklist Mencap Gateway

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Weekly Reflections: Milestone Moments & Autism Acceptance

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​Welcome to this week’s update! Week 11 has been a massive one, aligning perfectly with Autism Acceptance Week. Between hitting physical milestones and staying on top of the "life admin" that keeps things running smoothly, it’s been a productive and meaningful seven days.

​1. Volunteering: Walk for Autism

​This week marked the official Walk for Autism. I am thrilled to report that I’ve been clocking up the steps and officially completed the challenge on Autism Acceptance Day. It felt incredibly rewarding to finish such a significant personal goal on a day that means so much to the community.

  • ​Status: Completed & Submitted.

​2. Fitness: Nature Walk

​Staying active remains a priority for my physical and mental well-being. This week’s fitness focus was nature walks, allowing me to decompress and appreciate the outdoors.

  • ​Evidence: 
  • ​3. Hobby: The Digital Parish & Daily Office

​I have continued my rhythm of prayer but using the Northumbria Office a little less. I continue documenting my reflections on this blog, which helps me process the days and stay grounded in my spiritual practice. It has been holy week and is Easter today! 

We went to try Ps and Gs all in service today. 


CÀISG SHONA DHUT / HAPPY EASTER

"A-nis thog Dia an Tighearna agus togaidh e cuideachd sinne le a chumhachd / And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by His power..."

(1st Corinthians 6:14)

​4. Lifestyle: Sensory, Advocacy & Admin

​This category has been busy! Managing a neurodivergent household requires a lot of advocacy and logistical planning. Here is how I’ve been navigating it:

  • ​Self-Regulation: I’m continuing to use my Squiggle Society art supplies, fidgets, and planned sensory snacks to stay regulated.
  •  The Finch app remains my go-to tool for maintaining these vital daily routines. 
  • ​Advocacy & Logistics: * Applied for a disabled parking space to be installed outside our home to improve accessibility.
    • ​Managed vehicle admin: Updated my new number plate with my workplace (for parking) and Calmac Ferries ahead of my niece's wedding this summer.
    • ​Holiday Planning: Booked an Easter break at an Autism-friendly caravan and ensured the site has our updated vehicle details.

​5. Support & Community Connections

​I’ve taken some big steps in restarting and establishing support networks this week:

  • ​Health in Mind: Restarted sessions with my support worker to focus on mental health maintenance.
  • ​VOCAL: Had my initial call with VOCAL counselling to get things set up.
  • ​Family Time: We enjoyed a wonderful family trip to Almond Valley, which was a kind gift from VOCAL. It was a great way to bond and enjoy some sensory-friendly fun.
  • ​Reflections for Week 11: Finishing the Walk for Autism on Acceptance Day felt like the perfect way to cap off a week of hard work. Whether it’s the big walks or the small "admin" wins like updating a number plate, every bit of progress counts toward a more regulated and supported life.

    • ​Personal Challenge Status: Previously Submitted.

A Highland Theological College graduate and non-conformist follower of Jesus living at the crossroads of neurodiversity and faith. Writing on the wild grace of the Gospel.

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