Laura Farris, MP for Newbury, spoke in the House of Commons on Friday 4 February in support of the Second Reading of the Down Syndrome Bill.
There are around 47,000 people with Down Syndrome in the UK, and many face significant challenges throughout all stages of their lives. The Down Syndrome Bill creates a framework for services and opportunities for people with the condition. For too long many families have had long and complicated experiences of securing treatment and support for their children with the condition. This Bill will require public authorities to respond specifically to the needs of people with Down Syndrome in the preparation of health, social and education policies locally.
Laura said: “It was a pleasure to speak in support of the Down Syndrome Bill last week, setting out important new rights and protections for people with the condition and their families. I look forward to seeing its scope extended to those with learning disabilities more broadly”.
The Bill is supported by the Government and successfully passed its Second Reading on Friday. It will shortly progress to the House of Lords, and it is hoped that the Bill will be passed in time for World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March.