About Us.
Our Story, Mission, and Values
Founded in South Tyneside, Different Not Less Project CIC was created by author and dad of four Robbie Barnes to help children better understand autism, sensory differences and communication through inclusive storytelling.
The project was inspired by Robbie’s own family experiences raising autistic and neurodivergent children, alongside his experience supporting children with special educational needs. Through everyday stories, gentle characters and relatable situations, Different Not Less Project CIC aims to help children feel seen, understood and included.
At the heart of the project is the belief that children learn empathy best through connection, storytelling and honest conversations. The CIC creates children’s books, school workshops and community-focused resources designed to encourage understanding between neurodivergent and neurotypical children in a calm, accessible and age-appropriate way.
The long-term vision is to build a supportive, recognisable and trusted platform that helps families, schools and communities create more inclusive environments where every child feels valued, respected and never “less” because they experience the world differently.
Creating Opportunities Through Inclusion
Schools, Community Partnerships & Support
Different Not Less Project CIC is passionate about bringing inclusive storytelling and autism awareness into schools, SEN settings and community spaces in ways that feel genuine, engaging and accessible.
We are developing workshops, reading sessions and collaborative projects designed to encourage understanding around communication differences, sensory experiences and empathy through real-life storytelling and shared experiences.
We’re always interested in connecting with schools, libraries, family hubs, local businesses and organisations that believe in creating more inclusive communities for children and families across South Tyneside and beyond.