Mix it Upp - we made a book!
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Mix it Upp is Growing!
We’ve got some exciting news to share. Mix it Upp is making its way out into the world, and into classrooms and communities!
Since launching last summer, our feel-good recipe book, created by and for adults with additional support needs, has now reached nearly 100 copies sold to local schools and libraries. We’re incredibly proud. Not just of the book itself, but of what it represents.
Mix it Upp is more than a recipe book. It’s a collection of accessible recipes, creative ideas, and practical resources designed to help people:
- build confidence
- develop life skills
- feel more independent
- and most importantly… have fun in the kitchen
Every page has been thoughtfully created alongside our members, a brilliant group of adults with additional support needs, including learning disabilities, autism, and physical barriers.
Why we made it
What started as a creative, community-led project is now growing into something much bigger.
- Dundee Libraries have placed a large order — meaning copies will soon be available in every school across the city, as well as local libraries.
- Rosebank Primary School is already using the book with pupils as part of their learning and planning sessions.
- The book is now stocked in local shops, making it accessible to the wider public.
Seeing something our members helped create being used in real-world settings like this is powerful.
Could This Work in Your Setting?
We’re now working with organisations who want to use Mix it Upp as a practical, engaging resource. It works really well in:
- Cooking groups
- Supported living settings
- Wellbeing programmes
- Life skills sessions
If you’re supporting people to build confidence, independence, or simply enjoy food in a new way, this could be a great fit.
Why we made it
The aim of Mix it Upp is simple: to help people feel more confident and independent, especially in the kitchen. It’s packed with easy-to-follow recipes, creative ideas, and tips on living a healthy, happy life, shared from one community to another. We want you to have fun, try new things, and know that it’s okay to make a mess. That’s how we learn!
Made together, with love
Mi it Upp was brought to life by Uppertunity members, staff, and partners over the past year. It’s a true collaboration, from the recipes to the artwork. Our community shared their favourite dishes, helped test recipes, and added tips from lived experience.
Every page is rooted in real voices, joyful learning, and the power of doing things together.
What have people said about the book?
"This is just the right length for me to read on my own." - Victoria
"The pictures help me know what the dish is and how to make it." - Liam
"I like that the words are spaced out so it's not overwhelming." - Mary
"This book is a great way to independent cooking, with tips that can be used to increase confidence." - Carer
"I get really excited when I try a new recipe. I want to be able to cook more things than I can just now" - Gemma
Available locally (individual copies) at:
DCA Shop
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
The McManus SHOP
The McManus SHOP
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
The McManus SHOP
NHSTCF shop Ninewells
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
Pathfinder CIC, Perth
A huge thank you!
Credit for illustrations go to Dulcie Robertson.
A huge thanks to everyone who made this possible:
- Uppertunity members and groups (WiseUpp, Serendipities, Art Groups) for creating recipes, ideas and drawings for the book.
- Turning Point’s Gathering group for activity ideas
- Dundee & Angus College for tips on food waste and sustainability
- Caroline Bentley for sourcing and creating recipes
- NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation for funding support
This book is for you, from all of us at Uppertunity. We hope you love it as much as we do.