World Down Syndrome Day 2018 in the Big Wipes office

The Big Wipes team took part in World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on the 21st of March 2018.  This important event is a global awareness day, which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.

World Down Syndrome Day 2018 in the Big Wipes office

Activities on Worlds Down Syndrome Day 2018

Down Syndrome International (DSi) encourages their friends all over the world to choose their own activities and events on WDSD.  All of these should help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is and what it means to have Down syndrome.  Furthermore, it should be highlighted how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities.

Like many other individuals and organisations, the Big Wipes office wore colourful and mismatched socks to help raise awareness and celebrate this important day.

World Down Syndrome Day 2018 in the Big Wipes office

Global Theme

This year, the global theme was What I Bring To My Community.  All people with Down syndrome must have opportunities to contribute to the community and live valued lives.  They are to be included on a full and equal basis with others, in all aspects of society.

People with Down’s syndrome from the UK and around the world gathered at the UN in New York and Geneva to share their stories.  Above all, they highlighted how their communities can be more inclusive and discuss ways to empower people with Down syndrome to advocate for their own rights and opportunities.

World Down Syndrome Day 2018 in the Big Wipes office

The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA)

The DSA is the only charity in the UK dealing with all aspects of Down’s syndrome.  Above all, its aim is to help people with Down’s syndrome live full and rewarding lives.

Since 1970, they have grown from being a local parent support group into a national charity with over 20,000 members.  They have a national office in Teddington, Middlesex and an office in Northern Ireland. Despite this, the organisation is run by a total staff of just over 40 (many of them part time).  Additionally, the charity works closely with local support groups throughout the UK.

World Down Syndrome Day 2018 Big Wipes Lots of Socks

Please have a look at their website for more information on World Down Syndrome Day 2018 and all the other amazing initiatives that this charity runs.