I've been with these guys since February. They've been some of the most supportive, friendly and funny people I've ever met in a game. They've helped me in countless STFs and have also help put various ship builds together across my characters. I'd really encourage you to join this fleet as you certainly won't regret it.
Same here in the UK, was having difficulties before, e.g. Chat is offline and such. Then when I was AFK i got kicked, was able to get into my char select screen, but then I got kicked and I can't even start the launcher. Just bought a new Scimi as well :-(.