Jennifer is on a natural high

A heartfelt new song has been released which aims to raise awareness of two Exeter organisations while generating much-needed funds to support neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Jennifer Levey, a Therapeutic Mentor for Calmer Lives and independent counsellor, originally wrote Natural High over a decade ago as a personal expression of gratitude and self-acceptance.

Now, she has reworked the song to celebrate neurodiversity and highlight the vital work of Calmer Lives and CEDA (Community Equality Disability Action). The track was recorded with renowned producer George Shilling, who has worked with artists including Eternal, Texas, Gabrielle, and The Corrs.

"We need all types of minds in this world," says Jennifer. "Our song is about empowerment, understanding, and embracing who we naturally are. If we can foster greater awareness and support for neurodivergent individuals, we can help create a more inclusive and accepting society."

Jennifer, who studied music at the BRIT School and Dartington College of Arts, has worked extensively with neurodivergent children and adults. Her passion for both music and mental health support led her to adapt Natural High into a powerful anthem for change.

"Many people out there are struggling with little or no support, and they don’t know about the services available to them," Jennifer explains. "We want to reach those people.

"Historically, most of our referrals have been funded by local authorities, but as we all know, funding is stretched, and they cannot meet everyone's needs. This song is our way of raising awareness and finding another way to help sustain our services."

George, who produced and mixed the track, shared his enthusiasm for the project.

He said: "I was genuinely excited to be involved in producing and mixing this song. Charity records don’t have to be cheesy, and this is anything but! Jennifer has great talent. It’s a strong, catchy and pop-tastic song – and she is a terrific performer.

"The process of making the record was an enormous pleasure as she was very trusting of the process. It helped that Jennifer has had some previous industry experience.

"She gave me free rein to indulge myself – I added cello, keyboards and percussion – but also contributed lots of great ideas herself. The cause is of course a great one – the current woeful underfunding isn’t going to change in the short term, and as the father of neurodivergent daughters, I’m totally on board with this!"

* Calmer Lives is a not-for-profit therapeutic service supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families, helping them better understand themselves and their neurology. It operates as part of CEDA, a charity providing a range of services, including creative workshops and a disability-led radio station, Access All Aerials.

Natural High is available on all streaming platforms and can be downloaded via the CEDA and Calmer Lives websites in exchange for a donation. Proceeds will directly support the sustainability of these essential services.

For more information or to support Calmer Lives, visit: https://www.calmerlives.co.uk/https://cedaonline.org.uk/