This week is World Autism Acceptance Week (2nd April – 8th April 2024) – it’s all about raising awareness of autism and the discrimination autistic people face across all sectors of society, and how autistic people can be supported to access guidance and support to overcome these barriers and live independent, happy lives. 

We spoke to our colleague, Emma Metcalf, Development Officer, about her role at Golden Lane Housing (GLH) and her personal experience as a mother to a son who is autistic. She told us how her son is her inspiration for her career path and how GLH supports her to fulfil her role and her potential, enabling her to balance this with her personal life.

What made you want to go into housing and development in your career?  

I started my journey as a Development Officer for a support provider local to my hometown. My main driving factor for this was my personal life – my son is autistic and will potentially access supported living, giving the sector a special place in my heart. 

What is it like working in the supported housing sector? 

I find the supported housing sector such a rewarding area. I get to source, develop, and hand the keys over to lovely new homes to people a learning disability and autistic people, knowing that they have the independence and safe, secure, lifelong home that everyone deserves. 

What is one word to sum up your role at GLH?

Busy and I wouldn’t have it any other way – busy means homes and impact. Watching my son grow daily and seeing the struggles he goes through is a challenge. Knowing that he will have people around him when I’m no longer able to be and knowing that he will be safe and happy, is everything a mother can ask for. 

Can you tell us about the learning and development you’ve received at GLH? 

GLH has always remained flexible with my working week, which enables me to be the best possible mother and professional I can be. I have attended many courses to better my skillset, and in turn, grown further personal skills within my family home. My understanding of autism is great, but I will never see it through my son’s eyes, I can only try. The development with my knowledge and understanding of my role has supported this, in and out of work. 

What are you looking forward to getting involved in as part of your future career? 

Developing more homes for people, this role will NEVER get tiresome. 

What would you recommend to others about working for Golden Lane Housing? 

GLH has been nothing more than amazing! Flexibility is key… GLH has enabled me to remain within full time employment and supported me with my family life. At GLH we have a motto and that is ‘We are GLH!’ I truly stand by this. 

What makes you most proud about working for GLH? 

My son was once asked, ‘what does your mam do for work’? His response was, ‘she changes people’s lives!’ This says it all for me.

Thank you Emma.

Learn more about World Autism Acceptance Week on the National Autistic Society website.

Check out the latest vacancies at GLH by clicking here.