Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

People with Down’s Syndrome: Sport and Health

Tuesday 24 February 2026 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial discussions aim to provide young people with Down's syndrome access to health benefits through sport.
  • The Minister emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers to physical activity for children with disabilities.
  • The Minister expressed willingness to work with GPs, the NHS, and other bodies to review guidance and address barriers.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Al Pinkerton Lib Dem Surrey Heath
Care & Healthcare Workers Culture, Media & Sport Children & Families
Context

Discussions about the role of sports and physical activity in improving health outcomes for children with disabilities, particularly those with Down's syndrome.

Question

What discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on the role of sport in health outcomes for young people with Down's syndrome.

Answer from Zubir Ahmed

Every child with a disability should have the opportunity to reap the health and wellbeing benefits of being active. We are working across health, education and sports to break down barriers to physical activity, including for children with Down's syndrome. That includes ensuring that they have access to inclusive, sensory-rich activities that they can enjoy with friends, families and carers.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific discussions with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on the role of sport in health outcomes for young people with Down's syndrome were not addressed.

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Q2 Al Pinkerton Lib Dem Surrey Heath
NHS Mental Health Children & Families
Context

Following a meeting with British Gymnastics, the charity Stepping Stones, and Prime Acrobatics about barriers preventing young people with Down's syndrome from participating in sports due to neck stability concerns.

Question

Might the Minister be willing to take this case on, work with GPs, the NHS and other relevant bodies to review guidance in that area, and remove the barriers that can all too often prevent young people from engaging with the physical and sporting activities that are so vital to their physical and mental wellbeing?

Answer from Zubir Ahmed

The hon. Member is not the first colleague to raise that issue. Clearly, the safety of patients and children is paramount, but it must be proportionate and led by evidence. I would be very happy to explore this further with him.

Partly answered

Not addressed: A specific commitment to review guidance or take action was not given; only a willingness to explore the issue further.

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