We have a range of resources available for professionals, parents and carers, young people and adults on a variety of topics. Use the filters below to find the resources which are relevant to you.
We have resources for professionals, parents and carers as well as easy-read resources for young people and adults with Down’s syndrome. You can view resources in each category by using the buttons below.
If you can’t find what you need or would like to talk through any of the information or resources in this section please contact our Family Support Service team on 0300 030 2121 or email familysupportservice@dsscotland.org.uk.
We will continue to add resources over time so if there is anything you would like to see more information on, please let us know.
6 October 2026
Find your local Health Board and find out how to book your appointment.
We’ve consulted local Health Boards to help you arrange your annual health checks. Find the information and contact details for each Health Board in this document.
5 October 2026
This resource was created in September 2026 and contains links to booklets and more information on a wide range of winter vaccinations: from flu to Covid19, both for children and adults.
1 April 2026
Adults with Down’s Syndrome experience significantly poorer health outcomes and face higher risks of treatable and preventable conditions. Yet with the right preparation, communication support and follow-up, annual health checks can provide a powerful opportunity to reduce health inequalities and improve quality of life.
In this podcast, Varshali Swadi, Professional Engagement and Development Lead and Debbie Campbell, Family Support Service Officer from Down’s Syndrome Scotland, share practical guidance, lived experience, insight and clear actions for professionals to deliver equitable, person-centred care. They talk about why the annual health check matters, what good practice looks like, and how it can quite literally save lives.
13 January 2026
A set of resources for people with Down’s syndrome aged 16+
18 September 2025
Most children with Down’s syndrome have unique physiological and behavioural differences that can make it more difficult to assess how unwell they really are. This can lead to a risk of diagnostic overshadowing, where a person’s underlying condition influences a clinician’s judgment, potentially delaying or preventing the right diagnosis and treatment.
Healthcare professionals often rely on scoring systems and standard checklists of signs and symptoms to assess illness. However, these tools may not always be effective for children with Down’s syndrome, whose presentations can be atypical or subtle, making clinical awareness and parental insight especially important.
This practical, easy-to-read guide created by Dr Elizabeth Herrieven (Emergency Medicine Consultant and parent) and Dr Linda Dykes (Emergency Medicine Consultant & GP) offers essential top tips for triaging and treating children with Down’s syndrome.
Covering clinical and communication challenges, from recognising atypical signs of infection to supporting sensory and behavioural needs , this resource helps health professionals provide safer and more responsive care.
This comprehensive guide is designed to support family carers through one of the most challenging and important stages in a young person’s life—the transition from secondary school to adult life.
It offers practical information, advice, and signposting around key areas including planning and decision-making, further education and employment pathways, legal rights, financial support, housing options, and accessing adult services. Drawing on the real-life experiences of families, the guide is clear and accessible.
Ideal for families beginning to plan for the future, this resource can help you feel more informed, confident, and supported throughout the transition journey.
12 September 2025
Our Annual Report on the year running from 1st April 2024 – 31st March 2025
13 February 2025
The key focus of Shahid’s research team is tracking the early markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in people with Down’s syndrome. Identifying these changes as early as possible is crucial for developing better interventions and ensuring that individuals can live longer, healthier lives.
For more information about the study and how to join it can found here
30 January 2025
Our strategic framework that sets out our vision and mission how we will get there
23 January 2025
Are you planning for your Child to start nursery?
Starting nursery is a big step in your child’s life (and yours!) and it can be a very exciting time, however we know for all parents it can create feelings of mixed emotions, from worrying if their child will cope on their own, settle in or make new friends. Let’s Talk about Your Child starting Nursery -is a booklet we have created specifically for parents and carers of a child with Downs syndrome to help support when planning for and starting nursery to ensure the transition can be a smooth and happy experience for you and your child.