Growing up, my mum worked with young people and adults with disabilities for several years, many of whom had Down Syndrome. This has always been a cause that has been very important to my family and we need to be able to support and help families of those with disabilities. I was therefore delighted to offer my support to my colleague Dr Liam Fox MP's Down Syndrome Private Members' Bill, which received royal assent on 28th April 2022.
The Down Syndrome Act requires the Health and Social Care Secretary to issue guidance on how to meet the needs of people with Down syndrome.
Authorities including the NHS, health commissioners and integrated care boards – who will also appoint a named lead to oversee implementation – will then be required to follow the guidance.
People with Down syndrome are at an increased risk of certain medical conditions – such as congenital heart disease, early onset dementia or hearing and visual impairment. Education and early years support may not always meet needs and can be difficult to access and there is not enough suitable supported housing.
The new guidance will help ensure improved access to the support that people with Down syndrome need, which can include speech and language therapy, additional educational, housing and care support.
People with Down syndrome, their families, professionals and charities are being invited to answer the government’s call for evidence to shape new guidance for authorities to follow.
The guidance will help to ensure those with Down syndrome receive the care and support they need to live longer, happier and healthier lives.
I would encourage people to submit their views, which you can do so here: Down Syndrome Act 2022 guidance: call for evidence - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)