Do you have to deal with autism or another disability, yourself or in your family? Then it is very nice to know that you are not alone. Iris Lindner (45) has enjoyed working as a client support worker for 15 years stake. For example, she and her colleagues help to remove barriers, and that is still much needed.
“I first did the sports academy and gave gym lessons, also for a while to people with a disability. After that I am switched to Orthopedagogics and when I had completed that I got my dream job at MEE Zuid-Holland Noord, part of inZet”, says Iris about her special choice of profession. “I always wanted to work at MEE, because I thought it would be so wonderful to involve people with disabilities even more in society. I think it is important that everyone can participate, within the possibilities they have.”
Creating overview and recognition together
ALONG is there for people with disabilities or psychosocial problems and their environment. The help can range from diagnostics to courses and from group activities to short-term personal support to get you started. “Various target groups can come to us, such as people with an intellectual disability, non-congenital brain injury or the chronically ill. I myself have specialized in people with autism,” says Iris.
When you are diagnosed with autism, there can sometimes be quite a lot coming at you. Then it is very nice if someone who understands you can assist you. “People with autism really like clarity. When you have to deal with different authorities, it can sometimes be quite confusing,” explains Iris. “Then I help to create an overview or, for example, to look for the right assistance, school or leisure activities. It is also often nice to get to know more people like yourself. That is why I organize group meetings in which we discuss themes such as love and relationships, social interaction or dealing with criticism, and we have set up a meeting café.”
It’s a relief to be able to tell your story somewhere
Even if it is not you but a loved one who has autism, you can often use some support. That is why there are also group meetings for parents and partners, among others. “Then we are talking about, for example, dealing with your energy, because autism in a family can sometimes be quite intense. They often find it very pleasant that parents recognize each other’s situations. It is a relief to be able to tell your story somewhere.” If you would also like to attend a meeting for people with autism or their loved ones, feel free to send an email to Iris.
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Take back control
It is confirmed daily that the work of Iris and her colleagues is so important. “I regularly hear from clients that they have the feeling that they are finally allowed to be themselves somewhere. They like that everything is discussed openly with us. It makes me proud that we can make this possible. With a few small pushes in the right direction, people with autism can often move forward in their lives very well. From getting stuck in overstimulation to taking control again: that’s fantastic to see. Of course we look at the individual: what is feasible within your capabilities and who can then help you further?
This is how you can help people with autism
Fortunately, there is increasing awareness of autism, but there is still a lack of understanding, Iris notes. “Society is often not yet well equipped for people with autism. For example, things are vaguely described or worded. People with autism also often experience that they are considered lazy or disinterested, simply because others do not have the time or knowledge to get to know them better. I think that’s a missed opportunity, because that way people with ASD can’t use their qualities. Do you meet someone with autism? Then I would especially recommend being clear and concrete, asking a lot of questions (because everyone experiences autism differently) and really taking the time for them.”
Need a push in the right direction?
Do you also need a listening ear or practical support, for yourself or a loved one? stake is the central entrance for Zoetermeer residents with a request for help. It is a partnership of nine organizations and five partners, each with its own specialism. For example, you can easily contact various care providers in the following areas with your care or request for help:
- Money and administration
- Living and environment
- Health and balance
- Family and relationships
- Participate in society
Here you can read what commitment could mean for you or a loved one. Feel free to contact us and inZet will see how you can best be helped. Whether this is at MEE or one of the other organizations.
Also commit yourself to fellow citizens
Have you become enthusiastic about Iris’ story and are you looking for a nice job in the heart of the neighbourhood? On Bet’s website find the vacancies that are currently open. You can also read more information about the possibilities for volunteers here. In this way you can mean something to someone else in an accessible way, be active and develop your own talents.
“If you also think it is important that everyone can participate in society, you are good at organizing and you have a firm footing, then MEE is the workplace for you”, thinks Iris. “We have a very nice team full of people with a heart for the cause. But you can also mean a lot to someone as a voluntary buddy, for example by walking together or going to appointments.”