This November we are delighted to be supporting the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA).
Since its formation as a local parent’s support group over 50 years ago, the DSA has developed into a highly regarded national charity providing support to people who have Down’s syndrome, and their families and carers, throughout their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic had, and continues to have, a massive effect on the Down’s syndrome community. Children and adults who have Down’s syndrome can be especially vulnerable to the virus. Demand for the DSA’s services increased hugely with people looking for advice and support, to the extent that calls to their Helpline are up by 40%. Changes in school, day service provision and support services continue to create challenges for people who have Down’s syndrome and their families.
At this critical time, their regular income streams have halved.
With your help, the DSA can continue to keep vital services operating in these uncertain times.
- Making support, information and training accessible to everyone who needs it, both those who have Down’s syndrome and their parents and carers.
- Helping people to stay connected in lots of new and innovative ways. There is a real danger that people who have Down’s syndrome can become isolated during lockdown so we have set up ways for young people and adults to connect with each other and tell us how we can support them.
- Ensuring that people who have Down’s syndrome are not forgotten by government and policy makers at a time when decisions are being made at speed. Our role is to ensure that their voice is heard.
- Supporting new families. At least 300 babies who have Down’s syndrome will be born in the next few months and this will be a particularly anxious time for their families. The DSA must be there for them.
