Down Syndrome UK

Who we are

Down Syndrome UK (DSUK) is a national charity passionate about empowering parents and professionals to improve the lives of those with Down syndrome and their families in the UK. We have an amazing community for our families and know how important it is for them to have access to accurate contemporary information and meaningful support. We offer a super supportive online non-judgemental community, where parents can connect, ask questions, and gain insight from others who truly understand. In addition, we provide expert-led training for healthcare professionals, ensuring that parents receive accurate, compassionate support from the very start of their journey. 

Some of the services Down Syndrome UK provides:

• Peer support via providing invaluable access to other parents at the same stages for support and guidance, as well as experts on hand to advise as required; exclusive online training sessions including Makaton and online physiotherapy. 
• Early Developmental groups – provides parents with regular access to specialist input and support, to promote the development of a range of skills for preschool children with Down syndrome.
• Provision of resources to expectant and new parents, independent counselling and extensive ongoing support.
• Early Years Development Programme – A bank of resources provided to educational preschool settings to promote inclusion, educate staff for our little ones to be able to thrive and flourish.
• Primary Education Programme – accredited training modules for professionals working in primary schools, information and access to ongoing training and support.
• Training to medical professionals and provision of resources to demonstrate the lived experience.
• Conduct research to provide evidence to effect and implement change.
• Campaign and lobby – we are passionate about equality for people with Down syndrome and were heavily involved with Dr Liam Fox MPs Private Members Bill that became the Down Syndrome Act 2022.

Our culture and values

At DSUK, we believe that the birth of every baby with Down syndrome should be celebrated, that every expectant and new parent receives the care and support that they deserve, and that our parents have access to the information and support to ensure their child has every opportunity to flourish and thrive.

We want our children to be valued and included in the communities in which we live, to have the choice to attend their local mainstream school and when old enough to work; not to encounter barriers, but instead to be welcomed and embraced within society.

We aim to inform and educate as widely as possible to ensure that our children are able to become valued friends and colleagues without many outdated stereotypes and prejudices restricting friendships and working relationships.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Down Syndrome UK is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative of all sections of society and our service users, and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best.

The spirit of Down Syndrome UK is one of a celebration of diversity, in which everybody, regardless of age, ability/disability, gender, sexuality, language, ethnic and cultural origin, are valued equally, treated with respect and provided with equal opportunities.
It is our policy that no one should be discriminated against, harassed, or treated less favourably as a result of these characteristics. We are committed to celebrating achievement, promoting a positive and supportive ethos in which staff and our community feel they are valued, that their needs are met, and they have equal access to opportunity.