Northern Ireland

What we do in Northern Ireland

The Down's Syndrome Association has an office with four staff in Northern Ireland, based in Belfast.

Tel: 028 9066 5260 Office hours are Monday to Friday Office Hours - 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

We are the main point of contact for hospitals, schools and the general public in Northern Ireland
providing information and support on all aspects of living with Down's syndrome.

We offer training for parents/carers and to all professionals. We provide workshops for young adults and adults with Down's syndrome, improving their self-esteem and confidence. We also facilitate residential events to develop our young adults through outdoor pursuits, drama, and many other social activities and we run seven youth clubs throughout Northern Ireland.

Youth Work

We run Youth Clubs for teenagers aged 13+ in six locations in Northern Ireland.   The clubs offer outdoor pursuits, drama workshops and sport activities.  The group provide an opportunity to try new activities, build friendships and reduce isolation.  Everyone is welcome.

Social Nights for 16+

We organise a social night once a month giving young people a chance to meet up and hang out together.  The nights can include cinema, pizza, bowling and much more.  Anyone 16+ is welcome.

Adult Dance Troupe

The Entertainment Factory is a dance troupe of 21 adults who have Down's syndrome.  The group are all over 18 and perform as a group as well as solo routines.  They meet in the Mary Magdalene Church Hall on the Donegall Pass.

Mind Urself Project

This project is designed to help people who have Down's syndrome to look after and understand good mental health.  During the project everyone involved will work on their self-esteem and confidence, they gain knowledge around diet and exercise.  At the end of the project young people will produce a leaflet for people with learning disabilities about good mental health.

Citizenship Project

This project encourages young people across North Ireland to get involved in their community.  The project educates young people about what community is and how to be part of your community.  During the project we focus on different cultures and groups within society.  The young people on these projects are already volunteering in their community and present this work to the DSA NI Staff.  Contact the office if you are interested in participating in this project.

Volunteering

Our work in Northern Ireland depends a lot on our volunteers.  We have about 150 volunteers who are active with the DSA NI.  Some people chose one event that they like to participate in each year while others attend weekly events.  Whatever time you can spare is greatly appreciated.  If you would like to find out more about volunteering, please contact Donna on 02890 665 260.

Share Centre Shalet

The DSA in Northern Ireland own a chalet in the Share Centre in Lisnaskea, Fermanagh. The chalet is used for any of our members who want to avail of this chalet throughout the year.

The chalet details are:

• Sleeps 8 people
• Two ensuite rooms with 2 sets of bunk beds in each
• sitting room and kitchen diner

When using our chalet you have access to the swimming pool, steam room and gym included in the price.

Cost -

• One week - £220
• Weekend- £105
• Midweek- £165

Contact the Northern Ireland office for more information and availability.