Before joining the Brotherhood, Ben’s parent, Kev, told us that Ben’s world was mostly his iPad, his room, and his passions for disco, trains, YouTube, and music. While he loved spending time on these hobbies, there weren’t many opportunities for him to share them with others.

That began to change when the family heard about our Brotherhood Social Club – a place for over-25s who identify as neurodivergent to get together, make music, and enjoy each other’s company. “Ben loves music, so we thought it sounded like what he would love.”

“Ben was a little anxious at first, but he already knew a few of the lads, so soon settled.”

Kev admits he was nervous too: “I was nervous as it’s been a hard year for him, and didn’t know how he would react. Ben was a little vocal, but soon settled and said he really enjoyed it. All the lads were great with Ben.”

The Brotherhood is “very relaxed and welcoming. Everyone seems very friendly,” and Ben quickly realised this was a place where he could just be himself.

Since joining, Ben has become noticeably “happier” and “definitely a lot more confident,” Kev says. The music, social interaction, and friendships have given him something to look forward to each week.

“It’s always in his weekly plans now; he looks forward to seeing friends.”

The club hasn’t just helped Ben, it’s also given his family a sense of reassurance. Kev explains, “It’s made us more relaxed about trying other clubs, and hopefully be more confident in stepping back and letting Ben be more independent.”

“It’s great just to see him happy and want to come back.”