Opinion: A mum from Milton Keynes making our city better

Jane Lambert — the person making MK better!

Jane Lambert is an adoptive mum of three neurodivergent children and the Founder and CEO of Makewell Clinic — and she truly is making a big difference in Milton Keynes. She fights for neurodivergent rights and mental health awareness every single day.

As a mum, Jane understands deeply what it's like when your child struggles — whether they're little or all grown up. Her eldest is 23, autistic and ADHD — that's me! I know first-hand that every day can feel like a battle — for the child and for the parent. Many people don't understand what it means to be neurodivergent, or what works best for us. That's why Jane speaks openly about her experiences — so no one feels alone. Through Makewell Clinic, she offers so many different kinds of support, including free SEND parent support groups — a safe space for families just like ours.

Jane is everywhere in our community! She founded the MK Umbrella Project — the UK's largest neurodiversity art installation — shining a light on inclusion and understanding.

But that's just the start. Through the YMCA MK Mental Wealth Project, she's supported over 505 young people with their mental health — helping them build confidence and resilience. And if you ever visit Makewell Clinic, keep an eye out for the therapy ponies! My absolute favourite is Love Bug — she's so special and comforting, especially before or after an assessment. It really is such a lovely, gentle experience.

Jane was honoured with the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Award for Outstanding Community Impact in 2026 — and she deserves it more than anyone. She helps hundreds of people every day — including me.

There isn't an award for "Best Mum in the World" — but if there was, she would win it hands down. She set out to adopt one child — and ended up bringing my two sisters home too, just so we three sisters could stay together. That's the kind of heart she has. Adopting one child is a huge commitment — adopting three sisters to keep them together? That's something truly wonderful.

Thank you for everything, Mum. You are my superhero, my mentor, and my whole heart. I've never seen one person help so many people in so many ways — and I haven't even told you everything she does yet! I hope this story touches your heart the way she touches mine.

(3rd Youngest sister not included in photo for privacy reasons)

Hazel Marie Turton