UK Down Syndrome Bill welcomed in Scotland

A Parliamentary Bill which could transform the lives of everyone living with Down’s syndrome in the UK has been welcomed by Down’s Syndrome Scotland.

The Westminster Bill will be announced later today in the House of Commons and will be introduced by The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox MP.  The Bill, that will be introduced in this current Parliamentary Session and is due to receive its second reading later this year, is likely to lead to the establishment of a National Strategy which will seek to improve the provisions and the outcomes for all people with Down’s syndrome living in the UK.

Welcoming the announcement of the Bill, Eddie McConnell, Chief Executive of Down’s Syndrome Scotland said: “We are thrilled that Dr Fox has recognised the potential of all people with Down’s syndrome and that he has chosen our community to be the focus of this very welcome Bill.  We will work with our partners throughout the UK to ensure that the Down Syndrome Bill delivers on its promise to improve the life outcomes for everyone living with Down’s syndrome.”

He continued: “People with Down’s syndrome were one of the groups hardest hit in the pandemic and the Bill will need to address the deepening inequality that has occurred.  Our hope is that a Down Syndrome Act will create a new momentum that tackles the unacceptable health inequalities faced by people with Down’s syndrome, secures their rights to an inclusive education at a school of their choice and transforms the employment opportunities for everyone living with an extra chromosome.  It will be vital that the many voices of people with lived experience drive and inform the provisions within the Bill.  We stand ready to contribute and support the Bill on its journey through the House of Commons and we encourage the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Government to work with us to build on the work already underway in Scotland to ensure that everyone living with Down’s syndrome feels the impact of this significant development.”

For any press enquiries relating to this statement please contact Claire Serplus at Claire@dsscotland.org.uk or on 07825 326 910.