Peer Support for Autistic Girls & Women

Aim: Support autistic girls & women with peer-led groups, creative sessions & an online hub. Empower, connect & raise awareness.

Our vision

‘A Positive Peer’ approach allows autistic women and girls to connect, find belonging, express themselves, and flourish. 

Our vision is a world where autistic and neurodivergent girls and women are understood, accepted, and empowered to live authentically—free from stigma, isolation, or pressure to mask. We envision inclusive communities shaped by neurodivergent voices, where peer support and lived experience are central to wellbeing, growth, and connection. 

At APPEER, we create safe, supportive spaces where autistic girls and women can build confidence, develop life skills, and connect with peers who truly understand them. Our alternative education provision, peer groups, and community events are designed by and for autistic people, fostering authentic empowerment and long-term resilience.

Autism is not a "male condition." The ratio of autistic females to males is around 1:3. Despite this, many autistic girls and women remain undiagnosed for years. They often feel the need to mask their differences to fit in, a challenging and detrimental process that can lead to serious mental health issues, social exclusion, and limited life opportunities. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how individuals perceive, interpret, and engage with the world, often in a deeper, more intense, and more honest manner. These differences can make everyday life challenging, particularly in areas such as forming friendships, navigating a sensory-rich environment, and coping at school. Without adequate understanding and support, autistic girls and women face increased risks of isolation, mental health issues, and limited opportunities in life. Lack of early support compounds these risks.  

• 15% of girls we support are unable to attend school due to anxiety, sensory overload, and inadequate support.
• Autistic girls and women are more likely to experience mental health problems, including eating disorders and PTSD, and four times more likely to attempt or die by suicide.
• Only 20% of autistic adults are employed.

In autism-affirming environments like Appeer, autistic individuals can thrive, build on their strengths, and lead fulfilling lives.

We are seeking support from the community, to enhance our work and ensure the longevity of these vital projects. 

Your support will directly enable Appeer CIC to:

• Run more peer-led groups and creative workshops for autistic and neurodivergent girls and women
• Train and pay neurodivergent facilitators, creating lived-experience-led leadership
• Provide free and subsidised places for families facing financial hardship
• Create an online hub for virtual sessions and resources, reaching those who can’t attend in person
• Offer sensory-friendly materials and activity kits to enhance accessibility
• Raise awareness and reduce stigma through community education and advocacy

What our community says?

“Appeer has provided our daughter with purpose and hope.” – Parent of a participant

“Being able to talk to others like me is amazing! It helps me socialise and gives me hope that I will make friends and start doing activities with people outside of Appeer.” – young participant 

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 8th August 2025 at 9:39pm