I have been working with Down’s Syndrome Scotland for 3 years and I am an engagement worker.
I help plan and organise meetings for TeenZ Space and FriendZ Space and I’m the co-editor for the Lifetime Magazine! I once did a talk to over 300 NHS workers about living with Down’s Syndrome. It was amazing!
In my spare time, I love singing and signing at Choir 21! I also love colouring in and going to the cinema!
Matt joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in 2026 as a TeenZ and Friendz Space Worker. Originally from England, Matt recently returned to Scotland, having previously studied at the University of Stirling between 2012 and 2016. Scotland has always felt like a second home to him, and he is excited to support young people and families across Scotland.
Matt began his career in sports coaching in 2012 and went on to work with the Lawn Tennis Association, specialising in disability tennis. During this time, he coached across central Scotland and worked alongside Judy Murray and Jamie Murray to help make tennis more accessible for disabled young people.
More recently, Matt has worked within the music and wellbeing sector, supporting young people who are outside mainstream education through a charity that uses music as a tool to improve wellbeing. His work has included delivering sessions in schools, family homes and mental health settings, helping young people build their confidence, develop new skills and improve their emotional wellbeing.
Alongside his youth work, Matt is a professional music producer, songwriter and mentor who has delivered more than 10,000 hours of online coaching and mentoring sessions. He is passionate about building positive relationships with young people, helping them recognise their strengths, reach their potential and feel more connected.
Outside of work, Matt enjoys music production, songwriting and motorsport. His music has been featured on radio stations across the UK and internationally, and in his spare time he can usually be found exploring the outdoors with his stepchildren or watching Formula One.
Email: matt.hughes@dsscotland.org.uk
Katie joined DSS a year ago and has loved every minute of being part of the team. With over 20 years’ experience in the charity sector, including 15 years working in international development and fundraising, she’s passionate about making a positive difference and building meaningful relationships. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two young children, taking her dog Ozzy for walks on the beach, and relaxing with a good book and a cup of tea.
Alison joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in October 2025, bringing experience from her previous role as Support Assistant for children with complex needs in a primary school. As a parent of a daughter with Downs Syndrome, Alison has a deep personal understanding of the challenges and rewards faced by families and carers. Alison was delighted to have the opportunity to join the DSS Team. Outside of work Alison enjoys walking and spending time with family.
Lynne joined DSS in September 2025 as a Development Worker.
In her working life, she has enjoyed interacting with the public, having worked for Royal Mail, ASDA, and in a bookshop.
Her working life fitted around bringing up her two (now adult) children, the youngest of whom has Down’s syndrome. She wanted to work for DSS as a way of giving back for all the support given to her family over the years, while also bringing her life experience to the role and continuing to interact with the public.
Her hobbies include knitting, reading, singing, and signing in a local Makaton choir. She also plays the trombone in the local brass band and conducts the junior brass band.
Kaye joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in May 2026 as Programme Coordinator for the Inclusive Employment team. She brings with her over 20 years of administration experience and coordination roles across the public and third sectors supporting services and working with families and communities.
As a mum to a teenage daughter with Down’s syndrome, Kaye understands the importance of inclusive services, community connections and meaningful opportunities. Kaye says that choosing to come and work with Downs Syndrome Scotland was the easiest decision of her career, as she has long been a supporter and is excited to work for an organisation that holds a special place in her heart.
Outside of work, Kaye enjoys walking her dog, swimming and spending time with her family. Kaye loves the movies and is well known amongst her family and friends for her love of film trivia!
Lindsey joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in March 2026 as an AIME Mentor Support Worker and Meet Up Coordinator. Lindsey brings several years of experience supporting both children and adults with disabilities, and is passionate about helping people build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections within their communities.
Since starting her role, Lindsey has loved being part of such a supportive and inclusive organisation that genuinely values empowerment and equal opportunities for everyone. Lindsey will be supporting people on their employment journeys, helping to create welcoming social spaces, and encouraging people to achieve their goals.
Outside of work, Lindsey enjoys travelling, gymnastics, and dancing, which keeps her active and allows her to meet new people and experience different cultures. Lindsey is passionate about creating positive experiences for others and bringing energy and encouragement into everything that she does.
Simon joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in September 2025 as the Services Support Co-ordinator, where he develops systems and processes that help teams work more efficiently and collaborate effectively across the organisation. He is currently leading the implementation of a new customer relationship management system. Before joining Down’s Syndrome Scotland, Simon created and developed systems for criminal justice service teams working within social enterprises.
Outside work, Simon enjoys archery, miniature painting and travelling. He particularly enjoys the creativity and attention to detail involved in painting miniatures, as well as exploring new places and experiences through travel.
Clare joined Down’s Syndrome Scotland in March 2026, having previously worked as an administrator for a variety of not-for-profit organisations within the education and healthcare sectors. She now provides administrative support for DSS’s frontline service teams and loves helping people with enquiries, event bookings, spreadsheets, databases, and anything else that comes up day-to-day.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, reading, writing, exploring Scotland, and getting stuck into the occasional jigsaw.
SACCS Holistic care patient room upgrade
Design brief
Bathroom
Storage
Flooring
Lighting
Entertainment
Blinds
Wall finishes
Furniture
Formerly the CEO of Young Enterprise Scotland, Emma has over 30 years of third sector experience in Scotland holding senior positions in a number of organisations working for people with learning disabilities. Prior to Young Enterprise Scotland where she led the organisation through significant change, Emma was CEO at Unity (formerly Unity Enterprise) for six years. She is also a trustee on the Board of the Scottish Union of Supported Employment and is a founding member, trustee and Vice Chair of ‘We Are One Scotland!’ Festival of Citizenship. She started working in the social care sector at the age of 16.
Andy has worked in disability support work, facilitation and advocacy since 2017, previously with Sense Scotland, Art Reach, Community Focus and Glasgow Disability Alliance.
Joining DSS in July 2024, Andy has always had a strong interest in disability justice and activism which is what brought him to the role.
He also works as a freelance arts facilitator and loves to paint and make music. He also likes to enjoy nature with friends and family.