Down Syndrome Bill passes its Second Reading in the House of Commons
Ground-breaking Down Syndrome Bill passes its Second Reading in the House of Commons.
A bill focusing on improving the lives of those living with Down Syndrome passed its second reading on Friday 26th November 2021.
Introduced by Dr Liam Fox, MP for North Somerset, the bill will mean the establishment of a Down Syndrome Act and will be the first of its kind. The Act is set to improve the lifelong provision and outcomes for all those living with Down Syndrome in England. This will encompass, amongst other areas, maternity care, education, health and social care and employment.
Following an information-sharing meeting back in September between our Director and Dr Liam Fox, Joanna states “it was so great to hear Liam speak passionately about the rights and desired provision for our community, Liam has been clear from the start about the importance of getting this bill through which is clear and meaningful. He absolutely recognises what needs to be done and how real change can be achieved”.
The second reading at the commons brought together hundreds of people from across the Down Syndrome community who formed a rally to show their support as the reading went through. Attended by one of our families, Mum Annabel Tall and son Freddie who has Down Syndrome had this to say about the day:
“I live in North Somerset, and we joined Ups and Downs Southwest when the Charity first formed. I made some amazing friends who remain a huge source of support to this day. I have been very closely involved with the Bill as I work for Liam. The Rally outside Parliament on the day of the second reading was just amazing. Hundreds of families and Charities from around the UK met to celebrate the Bill passing. We met up with so many people I haven’t seen for years and met friends on social media for the first time in the real world. Freddie is non-verbal but his feelings on the day and the Bill can be summed up in the photos. I am very excited about the next stages as the Bill passes on through Parliament and then forward to issue the guidance which will help so many people with Down Syndrome and their families.”
