I've started this group for a few reasons. Primarily, because there is absolutely nothing in the area in the form of socialising opportunities for neurodivergent adults aged 35.  If there is, then I don't know about it which tells me that whichever organisation is running it, hasn't put it 'out there' very well so there are probably many more of us also thinking the same thing.

Secondly, socialising (if and when we want to) is all well and good but it's often help with the practical things that we need.

I know from things I have been through in my own life that sometimes, we want to talk about issues that are affecting us without feeling like we have to make excuses for putting ourselves across or behaving in a certain way, stimming or worst of all - masking.  Issues could include isolation, money worries, bereavement, travel etc.  Or maybe, if we have issues with executive functioning, we might need more practical help with things like financial management, housing, writing a letter, applying for a job, making a complaint about a product, benefits and forms, mealtimes etc.  

What if there were a bank of fellow neurodivergent souls you could connect with, either just for a listening ear or for practical advice on a topic that they themselves have good experience of and are willing to share with others. Many find benefit in just sharing their diagnostic experience and hearing how others have come to terms with their neurology afterwards. There is nothing more valuable than the experience and insight of other neurodivergent adults and of course, that doesn't mean everyone's ways of doing things will fit your way of being but you never know, you might just glean that nugget of an idea that you could try. 

It's really important that groups like this are led by neurodivergent individuals otherwise there is a real danger that (a) we will be pigeon-holed into something that neurotypical people think we want and need and (b) we can be open to manipulation because the group becomes a 'free for all' and there are no specific rules for people joining the group meaning that we could be left vulnerable.

That said, it's important to be realistic and remember that neurodivergent people have limitations so there will always be times when our capacity, energy and motivation will vary and this will naturally have a knock-on effect on group activities fom time to time.

Do you have a particular skill or knowledge in a specific area that you would be prepared to share to help others?  If you do, please get in touch so that we can continue to build our supportive peer community which will benefit all of us.

Finally, I want this group to be able to showcase small businesses in the North West that are founded and or/run by autistic people. Whether it's a cafe or a dog groomer, crafts and design or art/music based, you can advertise your business for free on here with the idea that this will lead to word of mouth referrals and an increased customer base for you. Everything has to start somewhere so feel free to send me information on your business initially by using the contact form.