Lucy Bowerman, a young woman from Witney, Oxfordshire, has emerged as a powerful voice advocating for reform in mental health care following her traumatic experience of being sectioned at just 12 years old. Bowerman was only diagnosed with autism in adulthood. She has written that this experience mentally “scarred” her and inspires her drive to ensure that no one else has to go through what she did.
Bowerman, now in her twenties, has long brown hair and navigates the world with shades frequently planted on her forehead. She has served as the co-chair of the Oxfordshire based charity My Life My Choice. The organization has been governed and led by people with learning disabilities. They’re using their platforms to uplift others who have overcome these same obstacles. In April, Claudia joined other young people in protesting in Westminster. Her rally sought to stop proposed amendments to the UK government’s Mental Health Bill which she feels do not go far enough to protect vulnerable people.
Having lived through what is known as “autistic burnout,” Bowerman has gone through deep, painful experiences—including a suicide attempt. Reflecting on her past, she stated, “The reason I’m involved… is partly to get justice for my younger self, who shouldn’t have been put through what I was put through.” She doesn’t only reflect on her own experiences, but she passionately pushes for systemic change through her work. Now, her passion is keeping anyone else from having to go through what she did.
Additionally, Bowerman contends that more resources need to be provided at the community level to keep people out of institutions. “If we’re unable to effectively diagnose people and support them, there are going to be more people ending up in burnout… and ending up in these institutions,” she noted. She is passionate about the power of safe, decent, affordable homes. Her vision supports the notion that people should live well beyond the walls of a hospital.
The Department of Health and Social Care has acknowledged the pressing issue of mental health care for autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities. A spokesperson stated, “The number of autistic people and people with a learning disability in mental health hospitals is unacceptable.” They further expressed commitment to improving services by stating, “Through our proposed reforms to the Mental Health Act, we will ensure people get the support they need in the community, closer to home, improving care and keeping people out of hospitals.”
