Two local charities have joined forces to make positive impacts for children and adults with Down Syndrome in the Laois area. Down Syndrome Ireland “Laois Branch” have collaborated with Kildare town based children’s charity Sensational Kids to provide Speech & Language and Occupational Therapy interventions for a nominal fee at Laois Down Syndrome’s Family Centre in Abbeyleix, Co Laois. This innovative solution will address the problem of public waiting lists to provide intervention services when they are needed.

Sensational Kids is an award winning social enterprise which has been in operation for eight years and has provided valuable early intervention services to over 4,000 children with additional needs to date, saving families over €100,000 each year in Speech & Language and Occupational Therapy fees.

Down Syndrome Ireland “Laois Branch” supports over 60 families throughout county Laois. The group has adopted a “Cradle to Grave Philosophy” whereby members are supported throughout their lifetime. Therapeutic services include not only Speech and Language and Occupational Therapies but also Chiropody, Reflexology, Physiotherapy, Yoga, Swimming, Music and Cycling. These services are available at greatly reduced rates for all their members.

Karen Leigh, CEO of Sensational Kids said, “We are delighted to partner with Down Syndrome Ireland “Laois Branch” to provide this very valuable service to their families. As a parent led organisation ourselves, it’s very heartening to see two family focused organisations working together to make a real difference and step in where public services aren’t always available”.

Speaking on behalf of Laois Down Syndrome, Chairperson Margaret Mirron said,
“Down Syndrome Ireland “Laois Branch” is delighted with this collaboration. As well as providing top class therapies and access to highly qualified therapists, this interaction of both our organisations also gives our own Branch members new and exciting opportunities which will enhance their continued development and social interactions. It will lead to real meaningful social inclusion through collaborative goal setting for our Branch members. We are very excited about the great strides forward both organisations can make together to the benefit of all our family members.”

To make enquires about this service to avail of these therapies please contact Laois Down Syndrome secretary on 086 8279942.