We have a range of resources available for professionals, parents and carers, young people and adults on a variety of topics. Use the filters below to find the resources which are relevant to you.
We have resources for professionals, parents and carers as well as easy-read resources for young people and adults with Down’s syndrome. You can view resources in each category by using the buttons below.
If you can’t find what you need or would like to talk through any of the information or resources in this section please contact our Family Support Service team on 0300 030 2121 or email familysupportservice@dsscotland.org.uk.
We will continue to add resources over time so if there is anything you would like to see more information on, please let us know.
18 September 2025
Most children with Down’s syndrome have unique physiological and behavioural differences that can make it more difficult to assess how unwell they really are. This can lead to a risk of diagnostic overshadowing, where a person’s underlying condition influences a clinician’s judgment, potentially delaying or preventing the right diagnosis and treatment.
Healthcare professionals often rely on scoring systems and standard checklists of signs and symptoms to assess illness. However, these tools may not always be effective for children with Down’s syndrome, whose presentations can be atypical or subtle, making clinical awareness and parental insight especially important.
This practical, easy-to-read guide created by Dr Elizabeth Herrieven (Emergency Medicine Consultant and parent) and Dr Linda Dykes (Emergency Medicine Consultant & GP) offers essential top tips for triaging and treating children with Down’s syndrome.
Covering clinical and communication challenges, from recognising atypical signs of infection to supporting sensory and behavioural needs , this resource helps health professionals provide safer and more responsive care.
This comprehensive guide is designed to support family carers through one of the most challenging and important stages in a young person’s life—the transition from secondary school to adult life.
It offers practical information, advice, and signposting around key areas including planning and decision-making, further education and employment pathways, legal rights, financial support, housing options, and accessing adult services. Drawing on the real-life experiences of families, the guide is clear and accessible.
Ideal for families beginning to plan for the future, this resource can help you feel more informed, confident, and supported throughout the transition journey.
12 September 2025
Our Annual Report on the year running from 1st April 2024 – 31st March 2025
13 February 2025
The key focus of Shahid’s research team is tracking the early markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in people with Down’s syndrome. Identifying these changes as early as possible is crucial for developing better interventions and ensuring that individuals can live longer, healthier lives.
For more information about the study and how to join it can found here
30 January 2025
Our strategic framework that sets out our vision and mission how we will get there
23 January 2025
Are you planning for your Child to start nursery?
Starting nursery is a big step in your child’s life (and yours!) and it can be a very exciting time, however we know for all parents it can create feelings of mixed emotions, from worrying if their child will cope on their own, settle in or make new friends. Let’s Talk about Your Child starting Nursery -is a booklet we have created specifically for parents and carers of a child with Downs syndrome to help support when planning for and starting nursery to ensure the transition can be a smooth and happy experience for you and your child.
Do you have a child with Down’s Syndrome starting in your nursery?. If yes, read on….
We know that education professionals want to do all they can to support every child achieve their fullest potential. We have created a booklet ‘ Preparing to welcome a pupil with Down’s syndrome into your Nursery, designed to support you to gain a greater understanding about meeting the needs of children with Down’s syndrome so that you can provide the best inclusive experience in your nursery setting.
Do you have a child with Down’s Syndrome starting in your Primary school?. If yes, read on….
We know that education professionals want to do all they can to support every child achieve their fullest potential. We have created a booklet ‘ Preparing to welcome a pupil with Down’s syndrome into your Primary School’, designed to support you to gain a greater understanding about meeting the needs of children with Down’s syndrome so that you can provide the best inclusive experience in your Primary school.
Are you planning for your Child to start Primary School?
Starting Primary school is a big step in your child’s life (and yours!) and it can be a very exciting time, however we know for all parents it can create feelings of mixed emotions, from worrying if their child will cope on their own, settle in or make new friends. Let’s Talk about Your Child starting Primary School -is a booklet we have created specifically for parents and carers of a child with Downs syndrome to help support when planning for and starting Primary school to ensure the transition can be a smooth and happy experience for you and your child.
19 December 2024
A guide to the initial care for a newborn baby with a diagnosis of Down’s syndrome. It is intended for use by all health professionals involved in the care of babies with Down’s syndrome across Scotland. This publication has been developed in collaboration between the NHS community throughout Scotland and Down’s syndrome Scotland.