makewell

31/05/2026

Cherry On Top moment for Makewell 🍒
Social Media interaction!

Recently we have received some lovely comments on our posts from our followers. We always share your comments and feedback amongst the team and it really does make our day! So here’s one we received that we really wanted to share with you...

“Absolutely fantastic team! Kind and thoughtful. They always answer my frantic emails with professionalism. They’re my comfort blanket in this new world I’ve found myself in.
Emma, Pippa, Nick and the chap who did the QB test with loads of animals (sorry I forgot your name!) — from the depth of my heart thank you! I’d be lost without you.”

We love and appreciate all the support and interaction we receive on social media. It’s something we really encourage and love to see more of — thank you to everyone who comments, messages, likes and shares.

30/05/2026

What Is Genomic Testing for Drug Sensitivities?
A practical guide to pharmacogenomics and personalised medicine

In recent years, genomic testing for drug sensitivities -often referred to as pharmacogenomics – has emerged as a cornerstone of modern, personalised healthcare. Rather than relying on a “one-size-fits-all” approach to prescribing, clinicians can now use a patient’s genetic profile to predict how they will respond to specific medicines.

This shift is transforming the way treatments are selected, dosed, and monitored, particularly within the NHS and other healthcare systems globally.

What Is Genomic Testing for Drug Sensitivity?
Genomic testing for drug sensitivity involves analysing a person’s DNA to identify genetic variations that influence how their body responds to medications.

These variations can affect:
- Drug metabolism (how quickly drugs are processed)
- Drug transport (how drugs move through the body)
- Drug targets (how drugs interact with receptors or enzymes)

The goal is to determine:
- Whether a drug will be effective
- The optimal dosage
- The likelihood of side effects or adverse drug reactions
- This field – pharmacogenomics – forms a key pillar of precision medicine, enabling more tailored and effective treatments.

To continue reading this blog, click the link below:

A practical guide to pharmacogenomics and personalised medicine Introduction In recent years, genomic testing for drug sensitivities -often referred to as pharmacogenomics - has emerged as a cornerstone of modern, personalised healthcare. Rather than relying on a “one-size-fits-all” approach to ...

29/05/2026

Our Employee of the Month for May! 🌟

A huge congratulations to Vicki, our Senior Medical Secretary, on this truly well-deserved recognition!

Vicki received an incredible number of nominations and was described as "warm, friendly, caring, professional, supportive, and an absolute joy to work with". Colleagues highlighted her approachable nature, the fantastic support she gives to her team, and her commitment to always finding solutions while keeping patients at the heart of everything she does.

Her positive energy, willingness to go above and beyond, and ability to bring laughter and joy to the workplace every day make her an invaluable member of the team.

Congratulations Vicki, thank you for everything you do here at Makewell!

29/05/2026

We are incredibly honoured to receive a High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Award for Outstanding Community Impact.

This recognition means so much to everyone at Makewell, as it reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting neurodivergent children, adults, and families across our community.

Over the years, we have worked hard to create accessible, compassionate, and neuro-affirming services that help people feel understood, valued, and supported. From assessments and emotional wellbeing support to advocacy, early intervention, and inclusive partnerships, our mission has always been centred around people.

A heartfelt thank you to Nikki Ross, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, for this recognition and for highlighting the work being done within the neurodiversity and mental wellbeing space.

We remain committed to continuing this important work and making support more accessible for everyone who needs it.

https://www.mkfm.com/news/local-news/top-award-for-milton-keynes-clinic/

28/05/2026

Their reflections lead into our upcoming webinar, where we’ll explore these themes further together. Both parts out now.

📅 Join us this evening (6:00–6:40 PM) to continue the conversation around mental health and youth voice, with insights from both professional experience and lived perspectives.

We hope you can join us.
Sign up here: https://ow.ly/pLq550Z56gl

27/05/2026

We asked the YMCA and Makewell teams to share what Mental Health Awareness Month means to them, and why having these conversations is so important.

In this video, they reflect on the value of listening, understanding, and supporting young people’s mental health, and why youth voice matters.

Their reflections lead into our upcoming webinar, where we’ll explore these themes further together.
📅 Join us on 28 May 2026 (6:00–6:40 PM) to continue the conversation around mental health and youth voice, with insights from both professional experience and lived perspectives.

We hope you can join us.
Sign up here: https://ow.ly/Tiba50Z4EPQ

27/05/2026

Wishing a joyful Eid to those who celebrate 💛

27/05/2026

Young people deserve to feel heard, understood, and supported 💛

This Mental Health Awareness Month, YMCA South Midlands and Makewell are hosting a webinar exploring the connection between mental health and youth voice.

Join Jennifer Birch, Head of Resident Support at YMCA South Midlands, and Jane Lambert, CEO of Makewell, for an open and honest conversation sharing professional insight, lived experience, and practical ways to better support young people’s wellbeing.

Together, we’ll discuss:
• How mental health can affect confidence and self-expression
• Challenges young people may face when struggling
• Why feeling heard and supported matters
• Practical ways we can make a positive difference

📅 TOMORROW - Thursday, 28 May 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 6:40 PM

Be part of the conversation and help champion youth wellbeing - f7a03726-6baa-4ace-9978-2dabbbd60919@2572255a-2f46-4956-a964-c126827d2479?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_content=ap_7Qhg7gJO0l4NFDn5lENsJh" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/f7a03726-6baa-4ace-9978-2dabbbd60919@2572255a-2f46-4956-a964-c126827d2479?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_content=ap_7Qhg7gJO0l4NFDn5lENsJh

Certificates will be provided for attendees to share on social media and show support for youth mental health.

26/05/2026

Autistic joy deserves to exist without embarrassment, explanation, or apology 💛

Find out more about our autism assessments here: https://wemakewell.co.uk/service/autism-assessments-for-adults-and-children-5/

26/05/2026

Eating Well to Support ADHD Symptoms: A Science-Based Guide

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. While medication and behavioural therapies remain the cornerstone of treatment, there is growing scientific interest in how diet and nutrition influence brain function and symptom severity.

Importantly, diet does not cause or cure ADHD – but mounting evidence suggests it can meaningfully support symptom management when approached strategically.

This article explores the science behind nutrition and ADHD, why eating well matters, and how dietary patterns may influence cognitive and behavioural outcomes.

Why Nutrition Matters in ADHD
The brain is metabolically active and highly dependent on nutrients to produce neurotransmitters, regulate signalling pathways and maintain structure. In ADHD, these processes – particularly involving dopamine and noradrenaline – function differently than in neurotypical individuals.

Neurotransmitters and Nutrient Dependency

Neurotransmitters are built directly from nutrients:
Dopamine requires amino acids (e.g. tyrosine), iron and zinc
Serotonin depends on tryptophan and vitamin B6
Myelin (nerve insulation) relies on fatty acids, particularly omega‑3
When nutrient intake is insufficient, these systems may function sub optimally, potentially exacerbating ADHD symptoms.

To continue reading this blog, click the link below:

Introduction Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. While medication and behavioural therapies remain the cornerstone of treatment, there is growing scientific interest in how diet and nutrition i...