Members of Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (DSA) experienced a memorable pre-election highlight with an invitation to visit No.10 Downing Street. In a special gathering, ten young representatives from the charity were warmly welcomed by Mrs. Murty, the wife of the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Charity Ambassador Max Ross said, “Mrs Murty was very kind and put us all at ease. She told us to call her ‘Ash’ and she shared personal stories about herself, including her favourite colour is pink, and that she and her daughters love Taylor Swift’s music. Then she asked us to tell her all about ourselves.” Mrs Murty accompanied the group on an exclusive tour of Downing Street, followed by lunch.
The visit was orchestrated by Portsmouth DSA’s Chair Rachael Ross MBE, who had also helped to organise a large reception the previous day at Downing Street for over 150 individuals with Down syndrome from across the UK to celebrate the enactment of the Down Syndrome Act 2022 and to raise awareness about the condition. Guests included actor Tommy Jessop (Line of Duty) and CBBC Presenter George Webster. It is thought to have been the largest gathering of people with Down syndrome in the building’s history.
Three children with Down syndrome, including Max were interviewed by Downing Street Press and took part in an iconic photo shoot to mark this landmark occasion.
The articles were then prominently featured on both the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Mrs Murty’s social media pages.
Reflecting on the week’s events Rachael expressed her enthusiasm, “We were all very excited to be invited to No10. We were able to speak with ministers and key policy makers about the daily challenges people with Down syndrome and their families face. The week was a huge success, and we certainly achieved our aim to raise awareness about Down syndrome at the highest national level.
PDS Association continues to work with government departments to help shape policies and practices, and improve outcomes for people with Down syndrome.