Family Support Service
Here for you through every stage of life
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Family Support Team
Our Family Support Team offers information and support for people with Down’s syndrome and their families and carers at every age and stage of life across Scotland.
Our regionally based Family Support Team offer face to face support as well as providing remote support nationally for people with Down’s syndrome, and their families, carers and professionals across Scotland.
We also provide training to Maternity, Health & Social Care and Education professionals who support people with Down’s syndrome and work with Universities and Colleges to help shape the minds and practices of future professionals.
Email familysupportservice@dsscotland.org.uk or call 0300 030 2121 to find out more about what support we can give you.
Ages and Stages
From birth to adulthood every child and their family will face different celebrations and bumps along the way. We know that all children grow up at different rates with different abilities, and all are OK. We can show you how to navigate each stage of development in a way that is right for your child, what to expect and what resources and services we can offer to support you.
Pregnancy
We are here to support you through prenatal screening and testing if you have chosen to have this to find out the chance of your baby having Down’s syndrome.
If you have received news that there is a chance your baby may have Down’s syndrome or you may be considering further testing we are here to support you confidentially and answer any questions you may have to help you understand more about what life can be like with a baby with Down’s syndrome.
You can find more information about prenatal screening and expecting a baby with Down’s syndrome here.
Early Years
We know that the early years of your child’s life are such a precious time but they might also be filled with worries and questions about your child’s development and health. We are here to help you navigate these worries and can help you find resources that will help at every stage.
We have a vibrant community that you are very welcome to be part of including local parent-led branches, a network of parents across Scotland. You can find out about your local branch here.
Primary School
Your child starting Primary School can be a stressful time for you as a parent, we are here to help you prepare and support your child for all the changes that come with this massive milestone in their lives.
We can support you with resources and information about how you can support your child’s learning and by attending meetings at the school.
We can also support the school, if that is something they require, by providing training and consultation support. You can find out more about the support we offer to Education professionals here.
Secondary School
The transition to Secondary School is a big change for any child and we know that it might come with additional challenges for you and your child with Down’s syndrome. We are here to help you navigate this change and support you through their educational journey at Secondary School.
We can provide support and information for you as well as work directly with the school. You can find out more about the support we offer to Education professionals here.
Transitions to adulthood and beyond
Leaving school and preparing to transition to what comes next can be a challenging step. We are here to support you and your young person through this time.
As well as our services specifically for adults with Down’s syndrome we are still here to support you as a parent or carer as you continue to navigate any challenges you might face throughout your child’s life.
If you would like to talk with us or need any further information or support please do get in touch via 0300 030 2121 or email familysupportservice@dsscotland.org.uk.
