21 Together
Maidstone, UK
21 Together was formed in 2017 following identification from a network of parents of Down's syndrome children of a gap in support services throughout Kent. Four parents found themselves lost in a sea of uncertainty, with no idea where to go to get answers they craved. After months of travelling across the UK and meeting at courses the parents decided enough was enough. There was no fairness in so many families throughout Kent having no access to support and knowledge. They vowed that no more families should feel the desperation they did in those early days. Building on this drive and determination 21 Together was formed, not just to provide essential support to parents / children and young people but also to raise awareness and provide formal training to professionals. The staff and trustees have lived experiences of the challenges that supporting a downs syndrome child can bring to a family. We are committed to our ethos that “ Everyone has the right to live their lives to the fullest of their potential”. Our specialist services provide the tools for our community to realise that potential. We do the work we do to give all children and young people we engage with to have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. Our community sits at the heart of every decision we make. 75% of the Board has lived experience ranging across the age groups, beyond that we are dedicated to gathering the view of community through formal and informal means to ensure every step we take is routed in the needs of our community. We are also very active in the wider national networks of charities supporting our community. Combining our local voice with the national vice to try and elicit real change for our community. Supporting young people with Downs Syndrome requires skill and time in what can sometimes be complex situations. Challenges are physical as well as social.
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