We challenge harmful myths, stereotypes and cultural beliefs surrounding autism and Down syndrome, and advocate for children who may be misunderstood, stigmatised or subjected to harmful practices.
Challenging assumptions about autism and Down syndrome that can lead to stigma, discrimination and harmful treatment.
Addressing the judgement and rejection experienced by children and families because of misunderstanding.
Replacing myths and misconceptions about autism and Down syndrome with accurate, evidence-based information.
Challenging harmful beliefs and practices that can place vulnerable children at risk of emotional, psychological or physical harm.
We Are Not Different CIC is an advocacy organisation working to protect autistic children and children with Down syndrome from harmful cultural beliefs, stigma and abuse.
Across communities, children with developmental differences can be misunderstood, mislabelled, hidden or harmed because of myths and misconceptions.
We work to replace fear with knowledge, stigma with compassion and misinformation with understanding — helping families and communities create safer environments where every child is respected, protected and included.
A UK-based advocacy organisation.
Autistic children, children with Down syndrome and their families.
To replace fear with knowledge, stigma with compassion.
Education, advocacy, safeguarding and community awareness.
Our community rests on dignity, inclusion, and safety. We stand together to defend neurodiverse children from harmful practices while celebrating their unique brilliance.
Children diagnosed with autism in the UK
Children born with Down syndrome
Families impacted by neurodiversity stigma
Scientific evidence supporting harmful myths
We provide education that challenges harmful myths and promotes greater understanding of autism and Down syndrome.
We advocate for children and families affected by stigma, discrimination and harmful cultural beliefs.
We work with families, communities and leaders to promote understanding, inclusion and child protection.
Creating space for parents and families to share their experiences and help challenge misconceptions.
We advocate for children and families affected by stigma, discrimination and harmful cultural beliefs.
We envision a world where every child, regardless of ability, is protected from stigma, superstition and harmful beliefs — and embraced for their differences.
Replacing myths and misconceptions with knowledge and understanding.
Recognising every child’s individuality and right to participate fully in society.
Standing against harmful practices that can place vulnerable children at risk.
Autism is a developmental difference, not a sign of possession, punishment or spiritual wrongdoing. Greater understanding and accurate information can help challenge harmful myths and support autistic children and their families.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition, not a curse or punishment. Children with Down syndrome deserve understanding, acceptance, education, healthcare and protection from stigma and harmful practices.
The language should be carefully reviewed by someone with relevant professional/self-advocacy expertise. Current advocacy resources emphasise inclusion and challenging stereotypes rather than defining people primarily by a diagnosis.
Autism and Down syndrome are not signs of possession, punishment or spiritual wrongdoing.
Yet harmful myths and cultural beliefs can cause children with developmental differences to be misunderstood, isolated and subjected to psychological, emotional or physical harm.
We are here to challenge these beliefs through education, advocacy and community awareness — helping replace fear with knowledge and stigma with compassion.
Giving parents a voice to share their experiences, challenge misconceptions and help others understand the realities of raising and supporting their children.
Your contribution fuels our work to challenge harmful beliefs, train community leaders, and protect vulnerable children across the UK.
We’re here to listen. Whether you need support, have a question, or want to share your story, reach out to our team.
Your voice matters.
