Backbench Business

Ms. Ferrier acknowledged the debate and Act, emphasising that decisions on whether children with Down syndrome attend mainstream or special educational needs schools should be based on individual need rather than diagnosis.

Mr. Stephens noted the importance of addressing diagnostic overshadowing and highlighted its particular significance in healthcare settings, where rights enforcement is crucial for individuals with Down syndrome.

Congratulates the right hon. Member for North Somerset on securing this debate and advocating for individuals in the Down syndrome community; shares a constituent's experience of diagnostic overshadowing, where her son Steven was treated inadequately by healthcare providers from 2019 to 2021, resulting in irreversible damage due to chronic pain and bleeding; highlights the importance of including 'Down’s syndrome' in the title of the Scottish Government's learning disability, autism and neurodiversity Bill to ensure that those with Down’s syndrome have access to necessary health checks and support.

Thanked her right hon. Friend for securing the debate and acknowledged the significant change in attitude towards Down syndrome over the years, citing personal experience of a family member with Down syndrome. Emphasised improvements in life expectancy and living conditions. Highlighted local social groups such as Stoke and Staffordshire Downs Syndrome Social Group and employment programmes like WorkFit which support individuals into work. Raised concerns about barriers to employment and the need for inclusive education policies.

Expressed his support for the debate topic and highlighted a local individual with Down syndrome, Jossie May. Advocated for better access to education and post-education employment opportunities, mentioning Rumbles Cafe as an example of supportive initiatives. Called for more research into health issues affecting people with Down syndrome and improved signposting in maternity care.

The speaker celebrates the achievements of individuals with Down syndrome through projects like the Music Man project, highlighting performances at prestigious venues and recognition from the National Lottery. She mentions concerns about post-19 education options and daycare availability for people with Down syndrome in Southend, suggesting a review of guidance issued by the Government.

Mr Offord highlighted the importance of hearing less frequent voices, particularly those of individuals with Down syndrome. He praised his hon. Friend Jo Gideon for sharing her personal experiences and paying tribute to parents who care for people with disabilities. He visited Saira Hettiarachchi at the Dillon care home in West Hendon where he met a boy named Michael with Down syndrome who could dance well despite limited verbal communication skills. Mr Offord also mentioned his visit to the Larches community trust in Edgware and discussed popular culture representations such as Liam Barstow (Alex Warner) in 'Coronation Street' and the film 'The Peanut Butter Falcon'. He emphasised that people with Down syndrome have hopes, aspirations, and a range of talents just like anyone else.

Congratulates Dr Fox and acknowledges his knowledge and passion for people with Down’s syndrome, expressing a gentle disagreement regarding the scope of the Act. Emphasises the importance of considering genetic conditions beyond Down’s syndrome due to concerns raised by Genetic Alliance. Acknowledges the Scottish Government's approach in consulting widely and using lived experience when developing legislation. Highlights the commitment of the Scottish Government to incorporate the UN convention on the rights of persons with disabilities into Scots law, advocating for a similar approach at the UK level.

I echo other Members in congratulating the right hon. Member for North Somerset on securing this important debate and supporting people with Down syndrome and their families through his Down Syndrome Act. I believe that what the right hon. Gentleman is trying to do has important implications for wider public sector reform, such as using a specific Act providing for named individuals who are held accountable and for guidance that actually secures change. However, there are other methods of securing changes in public services, like legal rights and direct payments which give people power over their services. I am a long-standing champion of the vision pioneered by Social Care Future, aiming to live in communities where we look out for one another and contribute meaningfully. Despite being in one of the richest countries in the world, it is still far from reality for too many of the 47,000 people living with Down syndrome in the UK. I highlight the issues of health and social care inequalities faced by individuals with Down syndrome. There are two main areas where we need to focus: regular check-ups for children with Down syndrome and better training for healthcare professionals. I also raise concerns about the lack of support in social care, which is currently facing significant challenges such as closures, unmet needs, and workforce shortages. The Minister should address whether reports of cuts to social care reform funds are true and how they will impact people with Down syndrome. I further discuss work opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities, noting only 5.5% were employed in 2020 despite a desire among many to work. I mention pioneering work being done at the Leicester Royal Infirmary with Ellesmere College, illustrating how support can lead to real progress.

Thanked Dr Fox for securing the debate, praised the National Down Syndrome Policy Group, highlighted young people's contributions and questions from a roundtable meeting at No. 10, and discussed the launch of guidance to support people with Down syndrome across health, social care, education, and housing sectors.

Congratulated her constituent Jade Kingdom for being the first person with Down syndrome to complete a sprint triathlon and raising £30,000 for charity.