A NORTHWICH-based charity that helps more than 180 people with Down’s Syndrome and their families has moved many of its friendship groups online.

Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group, which is based on Venables Road in the town centre, organises a number of engaging sessions such as dance, football training and yoga.

The group was concerned that due to coronavirus, the majority of these sessions which are enjoyed by many would have to be postponed.

But thanks to funding grants from The Steve Morgan Foundation, National Lottery Community Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, Baily Thomas Charitable Fund and B&M Community Fund, all can now be carried out safely online.

Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group was formed in 2007 by a group of Cheshire mums who all have children with Down’s Syndrome, and it employs education advocates who support school children in the county.

Studies show that 80 per cent of primary age children with Down’s Syndrome in Cheshire attend mainstream primary schools, and these children are often visited by education advocates to support them, their parents and teaching staff.

With many not currently attending school however, advocates have been contacting parents, sending out resources and support information and helping education staff to differentiate work.

Parent support get-togethers and training have been replaced with wellbeing courses and Makaton training online for parents and carers.

The group has even run its pre-school Cheeky Monkeys playgroup online with support from a professional speech and language therapist.

Lucy Liddiard, chief operating officer of Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group, said: “Like many local charities, we were initially knocked sideways by the rise of the pandemic.

“However, our staff and volunteers have responded swiftly to the new challenges and found creative ways of continuing to deliver the services that are so desperately needed by our families, some of whom are on the NHS shielded patients list and must stay at home.

“We were concerned about whether we could continue financially, but thanks to emergency funding made available, we’ve been able to help those with Down’s Syndrome in our community when they need us the most.”

For more information about services by Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group, visit cheshiredownssyndrome.com, email admin@cdssgroup.org.uk or call 07518 590300.