ALL ABOUT US
How We Got Here
Stoke & Staffordshire Downs Syndrome Social Group was set up in 2016 by parents and husband and wife Julia and Michael Boardman. The aim of the group was to offer children like their son Max a safe, fun and sociable place to meet with other children who have Downs Syndrome and to create a “family” for the future where parents could support each other due to the lack of support locally for our children. We are very positive about Downs Syndrome and believe every child and person with Downs Syndrome should be given the opportunity to maximise and fulfill their true potential. Our group has a wide ranging level of members who are all mutually supportive. New parents or carers are made to feel very welcome from the start. We are Charity registered and are currently affiliated to the Downs Association. During this time our group members have enjoyed such activities as Circus Skills, Sensory Yoga, Specialist Dance, Glow Sports. Also day trips to Geromino Festival, Winter Funland and recently memberships for National Trust, Peak Wildlife, and Trentham Gardens (due to Covid restrictions limiting group meet ups). The group also supports its families emotionally and advisory or by sign posting through connecting via the What’s app support group.
National Lottery Community Fund 2025
We have recently had some amazing news that we are delighted to share. We have been awarded a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund!!! This grant will go a long way to increase our group activities, which focus on social and community activities for the whole family. Which also helps with integration and social equality. Our members are truly thrilled that you've invested in them.
Please support the National Lottery as every time a lottery ticket is purchased it helps to raise money for the Community Fund. This money received is used to provide grants for charities, not for profits and community projects. In order for them to make a real difference to communities. Which is more than ever needed. We're so proud to be chosen for this grant and to continue to deliver in our community via our families.
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition where a person is born with an extra chromosome. This chromosome impacts on their physical and cognitive development. In the UK approximately 1 in 1000 babies are born each year with Down Syndrome. There are around 40,000 people in the UK with Down Syndrome. Common conditions attached to
Down syndrome include heart defects, bowel difficulties, speech and language delays, hearing loss, hypermobility and low tone. Often the world is difficult for those with Down Syndrome and they have to endure many obstacles, hardships and social isolation. Our group seeks to alleviate some of these challenges.
