Down Syndrome Ireland says “End The Stereotypes” this World Down Syndrome Day

To coincide with World Down Syndrome Day, which takes place today, Down Syndrome Ireland say they are calling for an end to harmful and reductive stereotypes, and for society to embrace the rich capabilities of people with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day is an annual global event highlighting the rights and achievements of people with Down syndrome.

The theme of this year’s international event is “End the Stereotypes”, and Down Syndrome Ireland is celebrating the achievements of its members in the fields of employment, education, self-advocacy and beyond.

In 2023, Down Syndrome Ireland’s National Employment Programme helped 92 people with Down syndrome to find paid employment, with 22 accessing work experience, and 80 new employers joining its National Employment Programme.

Despite advancements, Ireland remains near the bottom of the EU table when it comes to the percentage of people with a disability in the workforce.

Turlough Kelly, Communication and Advocacy Manager, said that Down Syndrome Ireland had witnessed the profound impact dignified employment can have on people with Down syndrome, and on their employers.

“Employers are constantly telling our Head of Employment, Aoife Gaffney, that our members are vital to their workplaces. It’s a tribute to our members – they have the potential, they want to work, they’re entitled to work, and we’d urge any employer with a suitable job to get in touch with our employment team”.

While employment is one vital factor in ending the stereotypes, it’s far from the only field in which people with Down syndrome are showing their potential. More and more people with Down syndrome are breaking boundaries and shattering expectations, from stars of stage and screen, to the dozens of people with Down syndrome setting up book clubs in Ireland’s libraries.

“Employment is just one of the areas in which people with Down syndrome are escaping the stereotypes”, Kelly concluded.

“We’ve got to where we are because the public have supported us every step of the way – we hope we’ll see more of that support this World Down Syndrome Day; anyone who wants to find out more, support our Lots of Socks campaign, or just make a donation, can visit www.downsyndrome.ie“.