Salford MP visits “invaluable” support group for children with Down Syndrome

Salford MP Rebecca Long-Bailey has described as “invaluable” a group for parents with children with Down Syndrome.

Ms Long-Bailey visited A Little Extra, a support group for parents to meet and a safe space for children with Down Syndrome to freely express themselves.

She said: “One of the stories that was told to me was that when a parent had given birth they were informed that their child had Down Syndrome and the only support they got was a leaflet.

“It was a bit of an eye-opener really as to what little there is out there for families like this, and as a group I think they’re invaluable. It’s hugely important because there’s nothing else out there.”

A spokesperson for A Little Extra described the group as “a peer support group for families of children with Down Syndrome – play opportunities, sensory crafts outdoor play.”

The free events are paid for by fundraising efforts. Multiple events have already proved to be a success with raising awareness and money to keep the group going.

Rebecca Long-Bailey said: “It was set up by Salford Families because they recognised that there wasn’t any support for families out there.

“It gives them a good place to decompress, to speak to each other about what kind of support they’ve been able to get and to provide a supportive space for the children as well.”

The group hosts spaces for the children to express themselves and their creativity. Additionally parents have a space to share their struggles over the week and talk to others with similar issues.

The group hosts events every Saturday from 10:30am to 12:30pm at Broughton Hub.