Overview

The Down Syndrome Bill mandates the UK government to issue guidance to relevant authorities on meeting the needs of individuals with Down syndrome. This guidance will inform how these authorities carry out their functions, ensuring due consideration is given to the specific requirements of this population.

Description

This bill requires the Secretary of State to create and publish guidance for relevant authorities on supporting individuals with Down syndrome. These authorities must then consider this guidance when performing their duties. The Secretary of State must consult appropriately before publishing and subsequently lay the guidance before Parliament. The guidance can be revised over time.

Relevant Authorities and Functions:

The bill defines "relevant authorities" and their "relevant functions". This includes various bodies within the National Health Service (NHS), local councils (covering social care and housing), education providers (schools, further education, youth services), and youth offending teams. Their relevant functions encompass a broad spectrum from healthcare and social services to education and housing support.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly allocate specific funding. The cost will depend on the development, dissemination, and implementation of the guidance issued by the Secretary of State. No figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Individuals with Down syndrome: The bill aims to improve their access to appropriate healthcare, social care, education, housing, and other relevant services.
• NHS bodies: Including commissioning boards, trusts, and clinical commissioning groups, are required to consider the guidance when delivering healthcare services.
• Local authorities: County, district, and borough councils will have to consider the guidance when providing social care, housing, and related support.
• Educational institutions: Schools, further education providers, and youth services must integrate the guidance into their practices.
• Youth offending teams: These teams will need to adapt their work to ensure alignment with the guidance.
• Government departments: Primarily the Department of Health and Social Care, will be responsible for creating and overseeing the implementation of the guidance.

Powered by nyModel