EUROPEAN DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION

Work builds bonds – United Kingdom

UK poster

Work offers people who have Down’s syndrome meaningful connection, confidence and a sense of belonging. The Down’s Syndrome Association notes that employment provides opportunities to meet others, feel valued, gain skills and enjoy greater independence—all of which support mental wellbeing and reduce loneliness. Through WorkFit, the DSA’s specialist employment programme, jobseekers are matched with inclusive […]

Let’s go on a trip together! – Belgium

Thanks to families and civil society organizations, people with Down syndrome in Belgium have opportunities to participate in some activities with peers and friends. However, across their lives, many individuals with Down syndrome experience loneliness and social isolation. Inclusion remains limited, and equal participation in social, cultural and leisure activities is lacking. Barriers include insufficient […]

Lonely? Theater transforms! – Portugal

By stepping into other characters, we explore emotions, empathy, confidence, camaraderie and friendship. People with Down Syndrome are no exception: they find in theatre a space for growth and participation, just like anyone of us. Download Portugal’s posters here WDSD – Portugal

Let’s grow together! – Spain

School prepares us for the future and allows us to develop as part of a community. If we want our classrooms and educational spaces to reflect an inclusive society, Let’s not allow any child to grow up alone.Inclusion at schools must be promoted beyond classrooms and learning adaptations. Every educational space is the environment in […]

Let’s cycle together! – Romania

Cycling is an activity that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances coordination. For individuals with Down syndrome adaptive bikes make it possible to enjoy these benefits safely. Beyond physical fitness, cycling also reduces stress, boosts mood, and fosters a sense of freedom and independence.Inclusive cycling encourages social connection. Group rides create opportunities for social […]

We stand together! – Greece

Loneliness is not a personal weakness; it is often the result of exclusion. Many adults with Down syndrome experience social isolation due to limited opportunities for meaningful participation in community life, employment and cultural activities. When communication barriers, low expectations and lack of inclusive environments persist, connection becomes harder. At our Association, we work to […]

Let’s work together! – Albania

It has been three years since Oldian was employed in a restaurant. His colleagues describe him as a devoted worker and a true joy to have on the team. Through work, he didn’t just gain an income, he found his community and his sense of belonging.Yet many persons with disabilities still remain excluded, isolated at […]

Together against loneliness – Iceland

Loneliness affects people of all ages, but individuals with Down syndrome face a higher risk of social isolation. True inclusion goes beyond physical presence – it means meaningful friendships, equal opportunities, and active participation in community life. Everyone deserves to feel valued, heard and connected. By promoting inclusive schools, workplaces, social places, we can brake […]

Against loneliness? We travel together! – Italy

Loneliness begins when people are excluded from the places and situations where everyday life is built.Travel is one of them.For people with Down syndrome, travelling does not simply mean moving from one place to another or going on holiday,but experiencing autonomy, growth and participation.It means making choices, getting organized, taking responsibility, sharing spaces and time […]

Go enjoy nature!! – Russia

Exploring nature teaches us to see beauty. By joining for a shared cause, people learn to value one another. Everyone matters when they care for the world around them.Nature brings us closer — to beauty, to peace, and to one another. When we care for the world around us, we feel part of something bigger […]

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