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AWARENESS

Raising awarenes of Down syndrome.

Every single person with Down syndrome has the right to a life they choose. We won't give up until they have the same opportunities as everyone else.

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REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1192916

WHAT WE DO

THE DOWN SYNDROME ACT


We are currently making sure the voices of people with Down syndrome in Cheshire are heard by working alongside the National Down Syndrome Policy Group (NDSPG) National Down Syndrome Policy – Supporting people with Down syndrome to have a say in the formation of policy, in providing evidence as part of the Government consultation for the Down Syndrome Act.


If you would like more information then get in touch here


WORLD DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY


Every year, on 21st March we mark World Down Syndrome Awareness Day . It’s celebrated on 21st of 3rd month because people with Down syndrome have 3 copies of chromosome 21. World Down Syndrome Day shines a light on the profile and capabilities of people with Down syndrome.


To follow our campaigns, be sure to tag in with the following:

@DSCheshire (Facebook)

@downscheshire X (Formerly Twitter)

@dscheshire (Instagram)

@downsyndromecheshire3888 (YouTube)

WHAT WE PROVIDE

Training Provided

We provide training and education to raise awareness of Down syndrome and to open up people’s eyes to what members of our  
community can and will achieve. Whether you’re a charity, business, community group, health or education professional we can support you in becoming accessible so that your students, customers, partners, employees and friends can fulfil their potential. For more           information about the courses we offer or to book an assembly please use the button below.

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Awareness Talks and Assemblies

Thousands of Cheshire school children in schools across the county have benefitted from our awareness assemblies which provide     accurate information about Down syndrome and inclusion. If you’d like to book an awareness assembly for your Cheshire school, college or university please contact us using the button below.

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Communications

Getting the message right is essential. Our maternity pack helps professionals use the correct terminology when delivering the news that a baby has Down syndrome.  A simple change in language can have a profound impact on expectant and new parents e.g. changing the word “risk” to “chance” makes such a powerful difference.

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Resources

Please find our Charity Information Leaflet HERE

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Find our Tell it Right, Start it Right poster HERE

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Our aims poster HERE

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Maternity pack HERE


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FAQ's

  • What is Down syndrome?

    We have 23 pairs of chromosomes copied identically in almost every one of our cells. Down syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This usually occurs because of a chance happening the time of conception which can either come from the mother or the father.  It is still not known what causes the presence of an extra chromosome 21. Anyone of any race, class or nationality can have a child with Down syndrome.

  • Can I catch Down syndrome?

    No. Down syndrome is a not a disease. You cannot catch it and people who have it are not ill and do not “suffer” from the condition.

  • Why is it called Down syndrome?

    Down syndrome named after an English doctor, John Langdon Down, who, in 1866, published the first comprehensive description of the condition.

  • What’s the life expectancy of a person with Down syndrome?

    People with Down syndrome may lead active, healthy and independent lives into their 60s, 70s and beyond.

  • Are there different types of Down syndrome?

    Yes. There are three types of Down syndrome. They are:

    Trisomy 21 – with this type all the cells have an extra chromosome 21. About 94% of people with Down syndrome will have this type.

    Translocation – this occurs when extra chromosome 21 material is attached to another chromosome. Around 4% of people with Down syndrome have this type.

    Mosaic – in this case only some of the cells have an extra chromosome 21. About 2% of people with Down syndrome have this type.


  • How many people in the UK have Down syndrome?

    There are approximately 40,000 people in the UK who have Down syndrome and around 1 in every 1000 babies born in the UK will have the condition.

  • What are people with Down syndrome like?

    They are individuals like everyone else all with different personalities, talents, tastes and experiences. People with Down syndrome go to school, have relationships, pursue interests, work and live independent lives. There are certain physical characteristics that are more common in people who have Down syndrome but they will still more closely resemble their family members. 


    Everyone with Down syndrome has a learning disability which means it’ll take longer for them to process information and learn new skills and tasks. This does not mean that they will not learn, develop and achieve


  • What is life like for people with Down syndrome?

    With improved education, healthcare and support there are now more opportunities than ever before for people with Down syndrome to lead a life of their choosing. Many adults with Down syndrome leave home, enjoy loving relationships, are active members of their community and have jobs. Others also win medals, gain qualifications and inspire others!

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