Down’s Syndrome - Information and Resources for Families

Around 47,000 people in the UK are living with Down’s syndrome and it is the most common chromosomal condition in the UK.

What is Down’s Syndrome?

Down's syndrome is a genetic condition caused by a chromosomal anomaly. Most people will have 46 chromosomes, but an individual with Down’s syndrome will have an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. 

The syndrome is named after John Langdon Down, an English doctor who was the first person to publish an accurate description of the condition in the 1860s.

The condition is usually associated with developmental delays, mild to moderate intellectual disability, and characteristic physical features. People with Down’s syndrome have some level of learning disability - but the abilities and needs of each individual vary. 

Many individuals are keen and able to work, but simply don't have the opportunity to do so. Around 42,000 people in the UK have Down’s syndrome. Yet just 6% of adults with Down’s syndrome and other learning disabilities in England are in paid work, according to government figures.

However with the right support, opportunities, talent, and passion, anything is possible, as highlighted in this news story by Lifeways.

What are the different types of Down’s Syndrome?

There are three types of Down’s syndrome: trisomy 21, translocation Down’s syndrome, and mosaic Down’s syndrome.

You can’t tell what type of Down’s syndrome someone has by how they look. The effects of all three types are very similar, but someone with mosaic Down’s syndrome may not have as many symptoms because fewer cells have the extra chromosome. So it's possible to have undiagnosed mosaic Down syndrome.

Lifeways supports many people with Down's syndrome, working with their skills and talents to ensure they live healthy and fulfilled lives that are not defined by labels. 

Residential care for individuals with Down's Syndrome at Lifeways

We provide dedicated support for adults across the UK living with a range of conditions, including Down’s syndrome.

For those living with Down’s Syndrome who would benefit from 24-7 support, our specialist residential care may be a good option. Our homes are all carefully designed - some with adaptations and assistive technology to ensure comfort and to encourage independent living.

Each resident has the privacy of their own room, with en-suite wet room or bathroom facilities, and communal spaces including kitchens and living rooms to provide residents with the opportunity to spend time with others.

All of our homes are located throughout the UK in city and rural settings - set within the heart of communities, meaning that they are close to local amenities and have excellent transport links. 

Lukasz’s story

Lukasz lives with a number of complex needs, including Down’s syndrome. He is currently supported at our Elm Tree House residential service in Rochdale, Lancashire, after he moved to the UK from his homeland Poland when he was a teenager, accompanied by his mum.

Sadly Lukasz’s mum passed away and he lost touch with his family back in Poland. But thanks to the amazing team at Elm Tree House, and his key worker at the time, Tracey Crabtree, Lukasz was able to take a trip back to Poland to see his family after 18 years.

The team at Elm Tree House helped Lukasz to develop a PATH – a creative planning process outlining his hopes and dreams for the future, which led to his trip to Poland.

The outcome of the trip has allowed for Lukasz to expand his support network, now keeping in regular contact with his father and other family members. His support team has also since learned how to better personalise Lukasz’s support, and he’s planning another trip to Poland soon.

Tailored supported living for individuals with Down's Syndrome at Lifeways

For those needing a little less support than those living in residential care, our supported living services empower individuals with complex conditions to live independently within the community, while receiving the tailored support they need to enhance or maintain their independence.

Every aspect of the support Lifeways provides is personalised to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person, delivered by our experienced teams. 

With specialised training, our teams confidently ensure that the people we support receive the best quality of life.

Supported living offers a perfect balance of independence and reassurance, giving the privacy and comfort of your own space, along with the security of having support readily available. 

Samantha lives with Down’s syndrome and has recently moved into a Lifeways’ supported living service, Beech and Willow House where, with support, she has since learned to cook, has taken part in outdoor exercise classes and enjoyed socialising.

“Although she is still a little shy and uncertain, her telephone conversations have gone from single-answer questions to a full-blown conversation of what her day has been like,” said her sister, Caroline.

Samantha previously lived in an environment where she wasn’t developing her skills or independence, but after a smooth transition into the service, in just a few days, Samantha started to settle in.

“Her emotional development and increased self-confidence since moving in was notably evident in just her first week,” said Caroline.

How can Lifeways help?

Lifeways offers a range of support options, designed to fit around an individual’s requirements. Whether it’s assistance with day-to-day tasks, or 24-hour round-the-clock support, our specialist teams are trained to provide the best level of care and support possible. Find support near you.