About Rise As We Are CIC

Our why

Rise As We Are is a neurodivergent-led community interest company. That means we are a non-profit and any profits are reinvested to further support the community.

We support autistic, ADHD and otherwise neurodivergent children, young people, adults and families to feel more understood and less overwhelmed.

At Rise As We Are, we offer mentoring, parent support and training for schools and organisations. Everything we do is practical, neuroaffirming and grounded in real life and evidence based practice.

The aim is simple. We want neurodivergent people to feel proud of who they are. And we want the people around them to feel more confident in how to support them.

You don’t need to have it all figured out to reach out. We’ll meet you where you are.

The Team

Carly Steel - Founder and CEO

I’m Carly, and I set this up because I was tired of seeing people reach crisis point before getting any real help...and when help did arrive, it's was not up to standard and didn't recognise or value the neurodivergent experience.

I’ve worked in this field for over 15 years and I have a MEd degree in Autism. I'm also a parent and AuDHD myself, so I’ve seen it from all sides. Families trying to hold it all together. Young people completely burnt out with little to no self-esteem or confidence remaining. Schools and professionals doing their best but feeling stuck and under pressure.

I wanted to create something for neurodivergent people, by neurodivergent people, so that as a community we can rise as we are.

Dylan MacMillan - Director

Testimonials

Carly is a fountain of knowledge in the field of autism and neurodiversity. Being autistic herself, she can offer a unique insight into the female autistic experience, and is eager to share with other autistic girls and women to embrace and advocate for their autistic needs and tendencies.

Oliver (staff at a training session)

Anyone who has the opportunity to work with Carly is incredibly lucky to have her guidance at such a pivotal point in their life. Her ability to help them navigate their autism with understanding, validation, and practical strategies is truly invaluable. She not only educates but also empowers, making a lasting impact on both the students she supports and the professionals she trains.

Alice (AuDHD adult)