Heartbreaking Experiences
In this powerful new release, the Parkers recount their harrowing journey to find a safe and nurturing home for Christopher after facing heartbreaking experiences of abuse and neglect in residential care. After two years of tireless advocacy, the Parkers were able to secure a supported living environment where Christopher now enjoys newfound freedom and independence.
Charles and Tina will be keynote speakers at the upcoming Loddon Training Conference, to be held at the Hampshire Court Hotel in Basingstoke on 16th-17th October 2024. They will share their personal story with a diverse audience of professionals, educators, caregivers, and families, stressing the need to raise expectations for adults with autism.
The challenges they faced are shared by many families. According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS) in 2021, 75% of autistic adults live with their parents, in contrast to just 16% of disabled adults overall. This disparity highlights the urgent need for more effective advocacy and better care options, which the Parkers have made their mission to address.
Kind Tailored Care
With the help of Kind Tailored Care, a Welsh-based care provider and sponsor of the Tell It As It Is series, Christopher has thrived in a supported living environment. Despite living outside of Wales, he has gained essential life skills such as cooking and cleaning, and enjoys a variety of activities in his local Southampton community. His daily routine includes swimming, dining at McDonald’s, and visiting his favourite animals—giraffes—at Marwell Zoo.
Reflecting on Christopher’s journey, Charles and Tina expressed their hopes: “It has always been our dream for Christopher to have a say in his life—what he wears, what he eats, and most importantly, where he lives.” Their journey offers hope to other families facing similar challenges. “If you’re in the same place as us, searching for that one rainbow in a storm, just keep going.”
Tell It As It Is: My New Home is more than a book—it’s a source of inspiration for families navigating the complexities of autism. Through their story, the Parkers aim to empower others to advocate for the rights and independence of adults with autism.
For more information on the book and the Parkers’ advocacy work, visit Kind Tailored Care.