The South Manchester Down’s Syndrome Support Group (SMDSSG) provides support and empowerment for individuals with Down’s syndrome and their families through a range of impactful programs, such as speech therapy sessions and youth advocacy groups.

Among its standout initiatives, the Chatterbox Club has become a monthly highlight for families. The event sees attendance of around 250-300 people, with no age restrictions, and provides people with the opportunity to participate in activities not always available to those with Down’s syndrome in the wider community, such as arts and crafts, yoga, and sing-and-sign Makaton, while receiving group speech therapy delivered by expert speech and language therapists trained in Down’s syndrome specific communication needs.

Esther Whitaker, CEO of SMDSSG, said: “The Chatterbox Club is an invaluable part of what we do here at SMDSSG. It not only provides essential speech therapy tailored to the unique communication needs of individuals with Down’s syndrome but also a warm, supportive space where families can connect and people can feel a sense of belonging.

“Each session strengthens the relationship between our members and the wider community, helping to break down barriers and increase visibility for those with Down’s syndrome. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment that allows everyone to succeed together, and the Chatterbox Club plays a huge role in making that a reality.”

The next Chatterbox Club will be held on November 16.

In addition to Chatterbox Club, the SMDSSG has recently launched a monthly user group for people with Down’s syndrome aged 11 and over, providing a space to discuss topics that are meaningful to them.

Each session is guided by facilitators who encourage participants to share their thoughts and experiences, helping them feel empowered and supported. Although the group is still in its early stages, it is linked to the National Down Syndrome Policy Group, with the potential to influence broader policy discussions, including matters like the Down Syndrome Act, as relevant topics arise.

SMDSSG has also been addressing gaps in holiday provision for children with Down’s syndrome through its popular holiday clubs. These clubs offer a week of play-based educational activities focused on subjects such as English and maths.

The clubs set personal development targets for each child, ensuring they continue to progress during school holidays. The success and demand of the clubs this year have led to plans for more sessions in 2025.

Staff and patients at CHEC Stockport have celebrated a year of working with the NHS to increase patient choice and reduce waiting times.

Since first opening its doors in October 2023, the community-based healthcare provider has completed over 1,231 cataract surgeries. CHEC Stockport has also succeeded in maintaining low waiting times, with patients currently able to access treatment within four weeks of initial referral.

Erin Broad, hospital manager, said: “It’s hard to believe it’s only a year ago that we welcomed our first patients to CHEC Stockport.

“Patient choice and reducing waiting times are at the forefront of the NHS agenda. Working with the NHS, we constantly look for new ways to make it easier for patients to exercise that choice and access the treatment they need.”

Over the last 12 months, CHEC Stockport has pioneered a series of initiatives that make it easier for patients to access its community-based healthcare services. These include a free Home to Hospital™ pick up service and an online patient booking app.

CHEC has established a stronghold for community healthcare provision across North West England, with hospitals in Trafford Park, Warrington, Preston, and Blackpool. Throughout the UK, CHEC now has more than 30 hospitals and 90 community sites.

Anyone who’s ever visited Manchester’s Christmas Markets will know that the trip feels incomplete without drinking from an iconic mug.