Down's Syndrome Scotland

12/10/2026

What is the Makaton sign for 'healthy'? Watch Dawn, Jason and John Angus use this sign to talk about things they do to stay healthy.

Look out for our post tomorrow to find out more about Makaton and how it's used.

10/10/2026

This Down’s Syndrome Awareness Month, we want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who took on a challenge for Down’s Syndrome Scotland. 💛💙

From ultra marathons to hot coals, long walks to zip slides, you’ve pushed yourselves, and every step, stride and slide helps us support people with Down’s syndrome to live their best lives.

We are so grateful to every one of you.

Inspired to take on your own challenge? Find out more at https://zurl.co/vujd0

09/10/2026

Forever 21 Ball is coming back in 2027 and we hope you can join us!

Save the date: 21 September 2027 in Glasgow!

Once again, we are planning a night of great food, entertainment, interactive games with prizes, and music. More details soon but mark the date in your diaries 💛💙

09/10/2026

Here is an exclusive, behind-the-scenes video of Charlotte's favourite Choir 21 warm up!

But you have to be warned: it's quite an ear worm and so much fun!

If you haven't seen Choir 21 perform yet, your next chance is at Sandfest concert on 25 October in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire - link on our website.

If you would like to join them, the Choir has the following sessions:
In-person on Mondays, 4.30 - 6pm in Glasgow.
Online (via Zoom) on Wednesdays, 4.30 - 5.15pm
Choir 21+ (for adults 18+) on Tuesdays, 3.00 - 3.30pm

You can just give it a try - contact: [email protected]
No singing or signing experience is needed. If you prefer just to sing and Makaton isn’t for you, that’s fine. If you prefer just to use Makaton and not sing, that’s ok too. We are happy for everyone to enjoy Choir 21 in the way that works best for them. If you want to attend with a support worker, sibling, friend or parent, just let us know.

08/10/2026

Hiring one person can change how a whole team works together. 💙

Businesses that employ colleagues with Down's syndrome in roles from operations to front-of-house describe teams that are more aware, open and supportive, and individuals who thrive on being valued as part of that team.

Inclusive employment isn't only the right thing to do. It's good for people, and it's good for business.

Are you an employer who is curious about where to start? Remember that this Down's Syndrome Awareness Month we're encouraging you to

Our team can offer advice and support, whether you're just beginning to explore the idea or ready to recruit.

Contact us on: [email protected]

07/10/2026

Absolutely brilliant!

Another fantastic turnout for our Adult's Down’s Syndrome group at Woodlands on Saturday! 💙

A huge thank you to Down’s Syndrome Scotland for your continued support and for helping us create opportunities that celebrate people with Down’s syndrome and promote greater inclusion within our community 🙌

Sessions like this are so important. They provide a chance to build friendships, develop confidence, try new things and, most importantly, make sure that everyone feels included, valued and able to participate.

Down's Syndrome Scotland

07/10/2026

On Wednesdays we look at why we’re .

This video is a perfect example of what we can achieve with the help of our community and supporters: Laura talks about the impact of Family Services Team and the benefits of ABC (Achieving Better Communications) sessions for Liam, as well as the importance of her local Down's Syndrome Scotland branch.

The video was filmed during the opening of Down’s Syndrome Scotland Garden at Watch US Grow after it relocated from the Chelsea Flower Show. Laura is sitting in The Hug – an incredible construction which was purpose-built by Old School Fabrications to reflect compassion, kindness and empathy that people with Down’s syndrome display so naturally.

The garden was designed by Burton Hall Garden Design, whose garden’s soul stems from Duncan Hall’s nephew, Liam, who has Down’s syndrome.

As an organisation, our aim is to help people with Down’s syndrome achieve their potential. ‘Behind the scenes’ is a dedicated Team and supporters, corporate partners and friendly organisations, whose generosity helps us achieve our aims.

So, when you watch this video, you’re listening to Laura’s beautiful story and, also, getting a glimpse of everything that drives us as an organisation.

06/10/2026

Calling all DSS Members who are also rugby fans! We've got 8 places to offer at Quiet Day at Scotstoun Stadium on Monday, 30 November from 2:00pm to 3:15pm.

If you find a traditional matchday environment challenging, you can experience Scotstoun Stadium in a quieter and more relaxed setting.

Guests will be welcomed into The Bothy, which overlooks the pitch, where they will be able to watch a Glasgow Warriors training session from a comfortable and calm environment. Following this, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a short tour of the stadium and subject to player availability, may also have the chance to meet some of the Glasgow Warriors players.

Event Details:

📆Monday, 30 November
⏰2:00pm to 3:15pm
📌Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow

We hope this experience will offer a unique behind-the-scenes insight into Glasgow Warriors while creating an enjoyable and accessible environment for all attendees.

If you would like to attend, please contact [email protected] to confirm your place no later than Wednesday, 14 October (8 places will be allocated on first-come, first-served basis).

06/10/2026

Read our letter to Maree Todd MSP on the Scottish Government's decision to drop the Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence (LDAN) Bill.

06/10/2026

Why are health checks important for someone with Down's syndrome? 💙💛

Some health conditions are more common with Down's syndrome, and an Annual Health Check helps catch them early so the right support can follow. This Down's Syndrome Awareness Month, swipe through to find out more 👉

We've put a lot of care into creating resources to help families feel confident about the process: booklets for parents and carers, easy read guides for adults with Down's syndrome, and guidance for health professionals.

We're also hosting two free online sessions:

☕ Tuesday 13th October, 7-8pm: Annual Health Checks Workshop for Parents/Carers, on Zoom
🥪 Tuesday 24th November, 12.30-1.00pm: For health professionals: Lunchtime Talk with Sharon Bandeen, community learning disability nurse who will talk about the role of learning disabilities teams, on Teams

📖 Book your place and explore our resources at the links below:
🔗 Workshop: https://zurl.co/nTtyH
🔗 Lunchtime Talk: https://zurl.co/WFlEt
🔗 Resources: https://zurl.co/zrXOn

Questions? Our Family Support Team is here to help: 0300 030 2121 or [email protected]