Nigel, the Autistic Companion

I am Nigel and I was very late diagnosed as Autistic (Aspergers), at the age of 55.  I am based in Shropshire, England (I am born and bred Lancashire though).

I work as an Autistic Companion…this is a new title I created for my role. I found that I was working as a Personal Assistant (care), but also creating a very personal connection that allowed me to act as a Coach, Mentor, touchstone, interpreter, gateway – in essence what they once called a Spiritual Director in both matters of the mind and the practical world. I think for modern people and for those Autistic individuals who want a connection, Companion says it all – I am there in the everyday, I am there in the spiritual, intellectual, emotion if wanted. I am there when someone is needed because the isolation is unbearable. I am there when the world makes no sense and seems abysmal and dark and lonely.

In my work with Autistic adults, which was not intentional, I was not seeking then out, I found I got on very well with them and was able to actually help where necessary.  It was this that led me to discover I myself was Autistic and get a diagnosis.

This blog is the story of my life and how I got to this point…and it is the vision of where I want to go from here…building on the past and all I have learnt to create a new future of possibilities and fulfilment.