A NORTHWICH charity was invited to 10 Downing Street to celebrate a landmark occasion.

Members from Down Syndrome Cheshire, based at Denton House, were invited to a reception on Thursday (March 21) for World Down Syndrome Day.

The occasion also commemorated the Down Syndrome Act 2022, brought about to improve access to services and the quality of life of people with Down’s syndrome.

“March 21 is a really important date for us as it represents the three copies of chromosome 21 which is unique to people with Down syndrome,” said Julie Duff, chair of Down Syndrome Cheshire.

“To have been invited to Number 10 to celebrate the Down Syndrome Act 2022 was enormously significant.

“Our members have played a key part in the consultation process by contributing their lived experience to the guidance that will help to shape the Down Syndrome Act.

“We’re so proud and privileged that the National Down Syndrome Policy Group asked us to be a part of this life-changing consultation for our members and we celebrated in style on the most important day of the year for our members.”

ALSO READ: Junior footballers rock odd socks to support classmate on World Down Syndrome Day

Northwich Guardian: Down Syndrome Cheshire were invited to a reception celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2024Down Syndrome Cheshire were invited to a reception celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2024 (Image: Supplied)

The Down Syndrome Act originated from a private member’s bills submitted by Sir Liam Fox MP.

It completed its journey through the House of Parliament before receiving Royal Assent on April 28, 2022.

Down Syndrome Cheshire then undertook a consultation of more than 200 people in the region, who provided contributions as a call for evidence for the bill.

This week’s reception was hosted by Minister for Mental Health and Women’s Health Strategy Maria Caulfield.

Northwich Guardian: Down Syndrome Cheshire visited Downing Street on March 21Down Syndrome Cheshire visited Downing Street on March 21 (Image: Supplied)

Meanwhile, back in Cheshire, hundreds of supporters donned crazy socks and sold sock biscuits.

Socks have has become a symbol of World Down Syndrome due their resemblance to chromosomes.

Julie added: “A huge heartfelt thank you once again to all of our supporters who make this such a special and colourful day across the region fundraising for and celebrating with our community.”

Northwich Guardian: Back in Cheshire, sock-shaped biscuits were sold to raise money for World Down Syndrome DayBack in Cheshire, sock-shaped biscuits were sold to raise money for World Down Syndrome Day (Image: Supplied)

For more information, visit www.dscheshire.org.uk/wdsd24.