What is R.A.I.S.E. CIC?

R.A.I.S.E. (Recovering Autonomy through Information, Support & Education) is a peer-led community interest company founded by cult survivors. We host online support, creative spaces, and education for people impacted by cults and coercive groups.

How can I get involved?

You can participate in peer support sessions, educational programming, and advocacy initiatives to help raise awareness.

What services do you offer?

We offer individual and group peer support, educational content on emotional literacy and cult recovery, creative opportunities, and public awareness advocacy for recovery.

Who can join?

Our Groups are open to:

• Former members of cults/coercive groups

• People raised in such groups

• Loved ones of current or former members

When do your support groups meet?

Monthly at 7pm-9pm UK time on Zoom. Support group sessions last two hours.

Who facilitates?

R.A.I.S.E. cic is facilitated by a team of people with lived experience of cultic abuse and several years of peer support group practice. We are not therapists but peers with shared understanding, committed to creating safe, respectful, and empowering spaces.

Can I join from anywhere?

Yes. R.A.I.S.E. cic is international, and participants regularly attend from many countries worldwide.

How do I join?

You’ll be invited to a short introduction meeting with a facilitator before attending your first group to share more information about how the groups operate and allow you to ask any questions you may have. After that, you’ll receive monthly Zoom links by email.

Are the discussions confidential?

Yes. We operate under Lessons Leave, Stories Stay, meaning participants are free to use what is shared in discussion, but the source and details must remain anonymous. Participants are asked not to record or screenshot sessions, nor to share names of any participants or groups mentioned in the session. However due to the nature of online platforms and technology, we cannot guarantee absolute confidentiality.

Can I keep my camera off?

No, we ask that all participants keep their cameras on throughout the session for security, and to help everyone feel heard as they share sometimes difficult experiences.

Can I just show up at an online meeting?

No. You will need an initial introduction meeting with one of our facilitators, after which you will be sent monthly Zoom links inviting you to attend.

How are community agreements and goals created?

R.A.I.S.E. cic is peer-led and collaborative. Community agreements and group goals are shaped collectively, with participant input guiding how we evolve and what we focus on together.

Do I have to stay for the whole meeting?

No — you’re free to leave early if you need to. Please let a facilitator know if you need to exit before the session ends so we'll know you didn't drop out due to technical issues.

What will I need to take part?

A device with Zoom, a working camera and microphone, and a stable internet connection. For group safety and trust, participants are asked to keep their cameras on during sessions.

Is there a cost?

We ask for a suggested donation of £5 or more to help cover costs. However, nobody will be turned away for financial reasons.

What happens in a Support Group meeting?

We meet on Zoom for a bit of education on a topic relating to cults and discussion. After introductions and sharing our community agreements, we sometimes break into smaller groups for an open discussion on the topic. We have a comfort break about half way through our 2 hour time, and we rejoin the larger group to share back briefly before closing. Some special sessions include creative activities like art or storytelling. It’s a safe, supportive space where survivors and loved ones can share without needing to justify their experiences.

What else does R.A.I.S.E. cic offer?

Alongside groups, we offer:

• One-to-one peer wellness sessions

• Creative activities for expression and recovery

• Resources on cult recovery and coercive control

How can I stay updated?

You can sign up for our mailing list to receive updates and information about our activities.

Where can I find what participants are saying about R.A.I.S.E. cic?

Please review our testimonials section.

What We Offer

Support and education initiatives

Peer Support

Facilitated peer support sessions for survivors and loved ones to share experiences and learn more about coercive control.

Educational Resources

Delivering content on emotional literacy and recovery strategies including workshops, bookclubs and community skill-shares.

Creative Space

Online spaces for survivors and loved ones to share creative expressions.

Get in Touch

Reach out for support, information, or to share your story with us.