A Place to Thrive: Supporting Children with Down Syndrome in Northern Ireland

We are a volunteer-run charity supporting children from birth to 10 years old with Down syndrome and their families across Northern Ireland. Our mission is to provide early support, inclusive opportunities, and a strong community where every child can develop, belong, and thrive.

We support families from early years through childhood with a wide range of services designed to meet both developmental and emotional needs.

Our programmes include:

1. Baby and early years groups

2. Mum’s wellbeing sessions and dad’s groups

3. Sibling support events

4. Inclusive family activities such as pumpkin patches, Christmas celebrations, and World Down Syndrome Day events

5. Peer support via Whats' App group from parents with lived experience

Alongside this, we deliver targeted developmental support including:

1. Speech and language support

2. Oral placement therapy

3. Music therapy

4. Dance therapy

5. Small group early intervention sessions

These services give children opportunities to build communication, confidence, and social skills in a supportive environment.

Our New Support Centre

To strengthen our services, we have recently secured a dedicated office space. This will allow us to deliver baby groups, therapy sessions, and small group interventions in a consistent, purpose-built environment and family support sessions.

This is a major step forward for our families, providing stability and continuity of support.

However, it also brings significant ongoing costs.

Why We Need Support

As a fully volunteer-led organisation, we have no paid staff and receive no government funding. All of our income comes from grants and community fundraising, including events such as marathons and World Down Syndrome Day activities.

We are now seeking support to sustain the running costs of our new centre, including:

1.Rent and service charges

2.Business rates

3.Utilities (electricity and gas)

4.Insurance

5.Furniture and equipment

6.Broadband and essential infrastructure

Without ongoing support, it will be difficult to maintain this vital space.

Why It Matters

This centre is more than a building — it is a safe, inclusive space where families connect, children develop essential skills, and no one feels alone on their journey.

“This group has given us support, friendship, and hope when we needed it most.”

How Your Support Helps

Every donation helps us keep this centre open and accessible. Whether you are an individual supporter or a business partner, your contribution directly supports:

1. Early intervention for children

2. Family wellbeing and peer support

3. Inclusive community activities

4. Specialist therapy provision

Partner With Us

We are actively seeking support from individuals, community groups, and businesses who share our vision of inclusion and opportunity for all children.

To discuss partnership or sponsorship opportunities, please get in touch via our JustGiving page or contact us directly.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for supporting children with Down syndrome and their families across Northern Ireland. Your generosity helps us continue building a place where every child can thrive.