Services to Children and Young people who have Down Syndrome

Between one in 700 and 1,000 people in the UK are diagnosed as having Down syndrome. On this basis, there are an estimated 30,000-60,000 people who have Down Syndrome in the UK and on average 1-2 babies are born  in the UK with this diagnosis each day.
 
Symbol has been able to demonstrate a model of speech and language therapy which acknowledges a unique profile which lends itself to a particular way of learning. 

In the absence of a nationally acknowledged and resourced strategy for providing speech and language therapy for this client group, Symbol has in collaboration with other stakeholders developed, delivered and researched a range of specialist services including:

1. Collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association and other key stakeholders  to provide advice to parents/carers, training for DSA staff, development of a joint National Strategy, training of Co-Workers and influence service practice and standards
2. Provision of specialist Training for Speech and Language Therapists, Learning Support/Teaching Assistants, parents/carers, teachers
3. Training for Speech and Language Therapists, Learning Support/Teaching Assistants, parents/carers, teachers
4. Research into the therapy we provide
5. Direct services including
   • Individual consultations
   • Weekly Speech and Language Therapy groups within a locality
   • Support for children in mainstream and special schools
   • Support for adults with Down syndrome in community homes and day services
   • Intensive or holiday days or weeks for groups of children with Down syndrome