DOWNS SYNDROME ASSOCIATION

The Down's Syndrome Association (DSA) was established in 1970 and is the only charity in the UK dealing with all aspects of Down’s syndrome. Down’s syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome; it occurs by chance at conception and is irreversible. Down’s syndrome affects people of all ages, races, religious and economic situations.

There are approximately 40,000 people in the UK who have Down’s syndrome; about 750 babies with Down’s syndrome are born in the UK each year. Everyone with Down’s syndrome will have some degree of learning disability and many may also have other health conditions.

The DSA supports people with Down’s syndrome throughout their lives, whilst raising much needed awareness of the condition. The DSA services include a free information helpline, parent and practitioner training, bespoke employment programmes, sports projects, assessments and conferences. The DSA provides free information resources to individuals, families and professionals.

People with Down’s syndrome can and do lead full and rewarding lives. Although healthcare, education and support have improved, the DSA knows that we still have much work to do to ensure that people with Down’s syndrome have the same life chances that the general population take for granted.