A CHARITY was pleased to see a ground-breaking bill, the first of its kind in the world, focused on improving the lives of those living with Down syndrome in England, successfully passed its third reading in the House of Lords.

The Ups and Downs Southwest charity, based in Westonzoyland, said they are “thrilled that this bill has gone through”.

The bill passed the reading on Friday, April 1, meaning that Royal Assent is imminent.

Joanna Thorn, director at Ups and Downs Southwest, said: “As a Down Syndrome specific charity, we are thrilled that this bill has gone through.

“Working with people with Down Syndrome from birth to age 25, we know that the needs of our community are specific and varied.

“This bill ensures that individual needs are taken into account, and they are able to access all services to support their health, education and social care needs.”

Dr Liam Fox MP introduced the bill as his choice of Private Member’s Bill. He was one of only 20 MPS who successfully secured a Ballot Bill in the House of Commons this session.

Dr Fox, a former NHS Doctor, and GP used this unique opportunity to bring forward the ‘Down Syndrome Bill.’ Dr Fox, an MP for some thirty years, has secured both cross-party and Government support, helping the Bill to get to this final stage.

On March 21, World Down Syndrome Day, Dr Fox and the National Down Syndrome Policy Group (NDSPG), who is championing the bill, hosted a celebratory reception at Westminster for supporters and politicians.

Among the speakers at the event was Baroness Hollins who is leading the Down Syndrome Bill in the House of Lords.

It is expected that necessary guidance around the law will be developed within a year after the passing of the Act.

Dr Liam Fox MP, the Down Syndrome Bill Sponsor said: “I am thrilled that my Private Members’ Bill – the Down Syndrome Bill – is set to become an Act of Parliament.

“This will mean there is now a law to deal with the issues faced by those with Down syndrome. I hope that three things will flow from this.

“The first is to help to de-stigmatise Down syndrome. The second is to ensure that the current provision of services is improved.

“The third is to look ahead and deal with future issues, such as long-term care, in an era where, for the first time, many of those with Down syndrome will outlive their parents.”

Tommy Jessop, actor from BBC’s Line of Duty crime drama and NDSPG Ambassador said: “This is a historic moment that might be world-wide and will change lives forever.”

Peter Brackett, chair of the NDSPG said: “The Down Syndrome Bill has travelled through both Houses unchallenged to get to this point, a testament to everyone involved.

“The community has really rallied behind the NDSPG in its support of the bill and we’ve had continual messages of support and encouragement from Down syndrome groups all over the country, other charities, politicians, families, and people with Down syndrome.

“We’re thrilled to be in the home straight of what we believe will be a transformative piece of legislation.

“As a group we had to hit the ground running when this opportunity arose and I’m proud of the work the NDSPG has done to champion and promote the Bill, leading to such a positive outcome for people with Down syndrome.”