06:30, 21 March 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Down syndrome refers to the condition when you’re born with an extra chromosome. Only 1 in every 1000 babies born in the UK has Down syndrome and many grow up to live fulfilled lives
While there are still a lot of misconceptions surrounding Down syndrome, this World Down Syndrome day we want to highlight 5 charities that support those living with Down syndrome.
A national charity that empowers parents and professionals with resources to improve the lives of those with Down syndrome. Down syndrome UK (DSUK) is passionate about providing information and support to caregivers to ensure that people with Down syndrome are not viewed negatively and are embraced by society.
Find out what you can do to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on their website
Highly committed to improving the quality of life for people with Down syndrome, Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) assists every step of the way for people with Down syndrome, as well as healthcare professionals and family members.
Learn more about how the Down's Syndrome Association can help you here
21 Together has a mission to provide support for children and young people with Down syndrome. They offer a range of services which also support families and carers to ensure people with Down syndrome are having their individual needs met and integrated into society through a positive community network.
Find out more about how they are raising money for World Down’s Syndrome Day with their #21challenge
Working on delivering support services and specialist interventions to improve the lives of people living with Down syndrome. Their scope includes working with schools and parent support groups to deliver educational resources to ensure people with Down syndrome are treated fairly.
The Down Syndrome Development Trust also engages in approved science and research to better understand the condition, learn more about this on their website.
Based in Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire, Downright Special supports children with Down syndrome. The charity has developed from a support system for other parents of children with Down syndrome to giving emotional and practical assistance to families.
For more information on attending a group session, check out their website.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Mencap. This charity supports people with learning disabilities. Their aim is to improve their beneficiaries’ quality of life and their scope includes people with Down syndrome. Learn more here.
Down Syndrome International.This charity is a global network for those with Down syndrome and their families to campaign for their human rights and adequate treatment. https://www.ds-int.org/
Ups and Downs Southwest. This is a charity offering direct support to people with Down syndrome, their families and professionals in Somerset and Bristol. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Reduced Inequalities, Good Health and Wellbeing
