About Us
Sundowns is a family-led charity based in Wirral, dedicated to supporting children, young people and adults with Down syndrome and their families.
We believe that every person with Down syndrome deserves the same opportunities to learn, grow, and be valued within their community.
From the early years through to adulthood, we provide practical support, inclusive activities, and pathways that help our members thrive at every stage of life.
Our work combines hands-on support with long-term vision.
We partner with local schools, health and social care services, and national organisations to ensure that people with Down syndrome across Wirral are fully included in education, employment, and community life.
Sundowns also acts as a voice for families, promoting awareness, improving communication support, and campaigning for fair and effective local services.
Our Mission
To empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing lifelong support, championing inclusion, and shaping a community where every person can achieve their potential.
Our Aims
Empower Families – Provide information, guidance and emotional support from birth onwards.
Enable Learning – Offer early years and school-age programmes focused on communication, confidence and readiness for life.
Build Pathways to Adulthood – Develop local opportunities for learning, creativity, employment and independent living.
Champion Communication – Lead local Makaton training and promote accessible communication for everyone.
Strengthen Partnerships – Work alongside schools, health, and social care professionals to improve outcomes and share best practice.
Advocate for Change – Represent the voices of people with Down syndrome and their families in local and national decision-making.
Our Vision
A community where people with Down syndrome are seen, heard and celebrated for their talents and contributions – where support, opportunity and inclusion are the norm, not the exception.
Our Team
At Sundowns, we’re powered by a small but passionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
Claire Summers
Project Coordinator
With a strong background in community development and family advocacy, Claire leads on programme planning, partnership building and new project design across education, transition and adult services.
Driven by both personal experience and professional commitment, Claire brings warmth, creativity and strategic vision to Sundowns’ work – helping turn family voices into lasting change.
Sophia Bridge
Safeguarding Lead
Sophia Bridge is the Safeguarding Lead at Sundowns, bringing over two decades of professional experience in safeguarding and family support.
Sophia has been involved with Sundowns for more than 20 years and brings both professional expertise and lived experience as a parent. Her deep understanding of safeguarding and family needs helps ensure that Sundowns provides a safe, supportive and trusted environment for all.
Libby Potter
Signing For Babies Coordinator
Coming soon…
Board of Trustees
Mark Bridge
Chair Of The Board
Mark Bridge is the Chair of Sundowns and has been part of the charity for more than 20 years. A retired police officer, Mark brings extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of community service.
Since joining Sundowns when his son was a baby, Mark has played a key role in guiding the charity’s development and ensuring it remains a supportive, family-centred organisation. His steady leadership, practical insight and commitment to inclusion continue to shape Sundowns’ growth and long-term vision.
Kim Page
Treasurer
Kim Page is the Treasurer at Sundowns and has been a key part of the charity for over 20 years. Throughout that time, she has held a variety of roles, including many years as Project Coordinator.
Kim’s long-standing dedication and detailed knowledge of the charity make her a central figure within Sundowns. Her commitment, experience and practical approach ensure that the organisation continues to run smoothly and sustainably in support of families across Wirral.
Tony Jones
Board Member
Tony brings over 30 years of public service experience to the Sundowns board. Before retiring from his long career in the police force, he worked across frontline roles and leadership positions, developing strong skills in safeguarding, community engagement, and supporting vulnerable families.
Tony is passionate about inclusion, fairness, and supporting families to access the help they need. He joined Sundowns to give back to a cause close to his heart and brings a steady, thoughtful voice to the board.
Ian Kaney
Board Member
After a long fertility journey, Ian and his wife Steph welcomed their son, Andrew, following a prenatal NIPT result indicating a high likelihood of Down syndrome. Through Andrew’s early health journey, including heart surgery at six months old, Ian and Steph found invaluable support and guidance from Sundowns and the Signing for Babies group.
Ian brings a professional background in IT and a lifelong passion for music, having performed over 1,000 gigs with a local band across the North West.
Guided by a strong moral compass and a deep commitment to equality, Ian believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.
His lived experience as a parent and his professional expertise together bring empathy, insight, and dedication to his role as a trustee.
Ana Harrison-McCormack
Board Member
Ana joined Sundowns after receiving a high chance of Down syndrome result during her pregnancy at 19 weeks. The support, information and reassurance she received during that time were invaluable and helped her feel connected and informed.
After her son Stan was born, Ana and her family became part of the Signing for Babies group, which she credits as the foundation of Stan’s early development. The group helped him grow into a confident and sociable young boy who loves to communicate and be included.
As a Board Member, Ana brings valuable lived experience and a strong commitment to family support, helping to ensure that Sundowns continues to meet the needs of new parents and children across Wirral.
Jaimie-Lee Kevill
Board Member
Meet Jaimie-Lee, a passionate advocate for the Down syndrome community! As a devoted mother of two, one of whom has Down syndrome, Jaimie-Lee understands the joys and challenges faced by families on this journey.
With a background as a teaching assistant and experience as a care assistant, she has developed a deep appreciation for the unique strengths and needs of individuals with Down syndrome.
Jaimie-Lee believes in the power of community and is excited to be part of a remarkable charity dedicated to transforming lives. She is committed to supporting families, raising awareness, and fostering inclusion for everyone with Down syndrome.
Together, we can make a difference.