Latest news with #UpsandDownsSouthwest


BBC News
22-03-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Somerset Puxton Park event celebrates World Down's Syndrome Day
More than 200 people will gather at a Somerset adventure park later to celebrate World Down's Syndrome Awareness Down's Syndrome support charity, Ups and Downs Southwest, is hosting the celebration at Puxton Park from 10:00 AM to 14:30 PM children, and young people with Down's Syndrome will have the opportunity to enjoy the adventure park, meet farm animals, and take part in engaging of four, Justine, said the charity provided "invaluable" support when her youngest son, two-year-old Enrique, was diagnosed. World Down's Syndrome Awareness Day, observed on 21 March, is a globally-recognised event that aims to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with Downs Syndrome. "With Ups and Downs it was like walking into a warm hug," Justine said."The amount of support between families is astronomical and everybody bolsters each other up."It's really reassuring to meet people who are happy, getting on with their lives and enjoying their children."It's important that people know more about Down's Syndrome so they are less afraid of it." "We are thrilled to have such an incredible turnout for this year's event," said Joanna Thorn, director of Ups and Downs Southwest which supports families across the area."It's a day to come together, to celebrate, and to shine a light on the wonderful individuals who make up our community."Events like this are vital in promoting inclusion, raising awareness, and ensuring that families feel supported."
Yahoo
29-01-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Brewer divides more than £30,000 in grants between lucky recipients
Family brewer Hall & Woodhouse has divided more than £30,000 in grants between 20 lucky recipients. The grants, awarded at the annual Community Chest Awards, are part of a larger £60,000 fund dedicated to communities in the south. This year, the fund is the largest donation made by Hall & Woodhouse through its Community Chest initiative since it began in 2002. Mark Woodhouse, family director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: "We're delighted to deliver a record-breaking Community Chest fund to support the multitude of voluntary organisations we have in the south. READ MORE: Dorset charities can win £1000 in Movement for Good Awards Hall & Woodhouse awards over £30,000 in Community Chest grants (Image: Hall & Woodhouse) "Our Community Chest Awards celebrate the amazing people doing fantastic things in our local areas and are a chance to thank and to give back to those who go above and beyond to help others." Among the beneficiaries, Routes to Roots received £3,000 to continue providing home-cooked lunches at its drop-in sessions in Poole. Ups and Downs Southwest, a charity supporting children with Down's syndrome and their families, received £2,000 for a 12-week intensive support plan. Another beneficiary, Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs, received £1,000 to cover training costs and professional services to support its autism specialist dog trainer.