Debate Marks Down's Syndrome Awareness Week

In a debate in the Scottish Parliament to mark Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week, Stewart Stevenson, SNP MSP for Banffshire & Buchan Coast, praised the developments that have created a greater knowledge of the condition.

Mr Stevenson said:

“It is worth looking at the range of achievements of many with Down’s Syndrome, which is probably nearly as great as it is for people without. Many people with Down’s Syndrome achieve at higher levels than many who have no measurable impairment of any kind, which is to be welcomed.

“We have to be very grateful for the changes that have meant that the way in which people with Down’s Syndrome are treated is now different.”

Mr Stevenson added that children with Down’s Syndrome are now living into their 60s and that if they are diagnosed and supported from a young age, they can live independent lives.

But he added:

“There are issues that we still need to take note of. Statistics suggest that 18 health conditions need to be monitored carefully throughout the life of a person with Down’s Syndrome.

“I very much hope that we will all be able to go away from this debate with a better understanding of the potential of people with Down’s Syndrome and a preparedness to help those who are affected by it.”