This project responds to an ever-growing need of information for parents of children with Down’s syndrome: the Bright Beginnings new parents guide. Bright Beginnings is primarily for parents who have just been told their new born has Down’s syndrome. However, experienced parents and medical professionals are benefiting as well. This booklet was designed by experts who truly understand the needs of children with Trisomy 21. Information and advice is provided in a most caring and sensitive way.

We have recently published a third edition, with additional information on healthcare in the United Kingdom and details of our proposal for Down’s syndrome clinics. The booklet also contains stories that are written by parents, for parents, sharing their experiences.

The response to Bright Beginnings has been overwhelmingly positive. To ensure the booklets reach as many new parents as possible we have been distributing them free of charge to Maternity Wards, Paediatricians, Midwives, Obstetricians and Parent Support Groups in the regions where funding has been received.

Almost everyday we receive requests additional supplies from parents and from medical professionals. Medical professionals are recommending Bright Beginnings to their colleagues all over the country, including Scotland, Wales and Ireland. We have even have requests to translate the booklet into other languages.

The original printing and some of the distribution and administrative costs were paid for with Regional National Lottery grants from “Awards for All”.

Click here to view the PDF online

26,000 Copies Bright Beginnings were distributed at no cost to hospitals and medical facilities in the UK we have now ran out of these booklets and funding is needed to update this wonderful booklet and to do another print run.   Grant making trusts and financial supporters can have an immediate impact on thousands of families if they can help us to fund this project,  Each booklet costs us about £5 to produce and distribute.  We have hundreds of thank you letters from doctors and nurses asking us to continue this project.

• Tesco Charitable Trust
  
• Norman Family Charitable Trust
  
• The Austin and Hope Pilkington Trust
  
• Wilko