A Cheshire charity has praised a Parliamentary Bill which will improve the lives of those with Down syndrome.

Dr Liam Fox, MP for North Somerset, has introduced the Down Syndrome Bill, which looks set to become law after clearing its first hurdle in the House of Commons on November 26 gaining Government support.

Should it pass, it would mean the establishment of a Down Syndrome Act – the first of its kind in the world –which would improve the provision and outcomes for all those living with Down syndrome in England encompassing maternity care, education, health and social care and employment.

The CEO of Northwich-based Down Syndrome Cheshire Lawrence Caygill described support for the Bill as a giant leap forward for those living with the condition.

He said: “The advancement of this Bill and the recommendation by Government to support it is a giant leap forward for those who have Down syndrome.

"Everyone has a right to fair and equal opportunities so that they can live the life they choose.

"For too long now the provision and outcomes for people living with Down syndrome have been inadequate.

"Our members are individuals who have so much to contribute to society and many want to work, have relationships and active social lives.

"The establishment of a Down Syndrome Act will hold services and employers to account to ensure they’re operating in a fair and inclusive manner.”

Down Syndrome Cheshire currently supports in the region of 250 people who have Down syndrome in the county to live the life they choose.

The charity provides advice, information, education advocacy, peer support, speech therapy, friendship groups and training as well as helping families and informing the wider community about Down syndrome.

The Cheshire charity is also supportive of the National Down Syndrome Policy Group (NDSPG) which launched a campaign in support for the Bill. 

The ‘Stand Up for Down Syndrome’ campaign includes a Change.org petition which has attracted the signatures of 30,400 people with Down syndrome, their families and supporters.

Campaigners are calling for the Bill to receive Royal Assent before World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2022.