Bethany Asher: A New Patron for DSRF UK 

Bethany Asher – a British actor known for her television and film appearances – turned 30 recently. She also took up a role as Patron of the Down Syndrome Research Foundation UK, which by co-incidence has entered its 30^th Anniversary year too.

Together in 2026, we are looking back at 30 years of growth, change and remarkable achievements in the Down Syndrome community. Bethany’s life and goals are a vibrant glimpse of DSRF UK’s hopes for ‘a world where all people with Down syndrome live a long, healthy and happy life’.

The last three decades have thankfully seen doors begin to open that were kept shut for much of history for people with Down syndrome. Science and research have introduced new therapies, advocacy has improved the protection of rights, public awareness has dispelled some myths that caused neglect and serious damage. We are thrilled about this. However, there’s a danger that some of these doors will remain half-open.

Celebrating successes and achievements is important, but Bethany is also keenly aware of things that continue to hold people with Down syndrome back, both in terms of social barriers and equality, and in terms of health.

A powerful voice as a self-advocate, Bethany has spoken out with courage and conviction about issues that affect the human rights of people with Down syndrome, arguing for equality pre-birth, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities to be protected in end-of-life debates. She often uses her social media presence to call for more positive and respectful media portrayals. Bethany has been active as an advocate with the National Down Syndrome Policy Group, DANC (the Disabled Artists Networking Community), and Triple C (Creative Confidence Collective). She is keen to change people’s perspectives about Down syndrome, and her work as an actress has helped promote authentic and nuanced representations of Down syndrome on screen.

You can see some of Bethany’s impressive portfolio of work here. She is currently on set filming for another BBC drama, working long hours in an exciting new acting role.

Another important focus for Bethany is living a healthy lifestyle, with attention to the important part that nutrition, exercise and sleep can play in maximising health alongside Trisomy 21. A role model for healthy eating, Bethany experiences that it makes a huge difference to her quality of life,  contributing to the energy and strength she needs to achieve her goals.

Compared to even 30 years ago, we know much more about encouraging opportunities to maximise health and wellbeing for people with Down syndrome. Much of this understanding has come about through research, which has improved understanding of hidden aspects of Trisomy 21, and led to effective and innovative therapies and interventions. Advocacy and raising awareness in these decades has also changed the outlook for many individuals and families, and proved that equity and inclusion are essential to improving the lives of every person with Down syndrome.

(Trustees’ daughter Beth meets Bethany)

We believe good quality research has a vital part to play in how the next decades will unfold for the Down syndrome community. Thank you Bethany for joining us as our patron! We hope to work together to bring about much positive change for the Down syndrome community in the years ahead.