Welcome to Sundowns
You’ve just received a diagnosis. We’re here to support your journey.
Sundowns is a Wirral-based community of families supporting each other through every stage of life with Down syndrome.
If you’ve just received a Down syndrome diagnosis – either during pregnancy or shortly after birth – we know how overwhelming, emotional & uncertain this moment can feel.
We’re Sundowns, a small Wirral-based charity led by families with lived experience. Many of us have stood exactly where you are now. We understand the unknowns, questions, the fears & the love that come with those first days and weeks.
Since 2000, we’ve been supporting local families through every stage – from birth to adulthood – offering real-life advice, shared experience, & a warm, welcoming community.
Connect as much or as little as you need. Just know that you’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it all out at once.
We’re here when you’re ready.
Connect as much or as little as you need. Just know that you’re not alone & you don’t have to figure it all out at once.
We’re here when you’re ready.
At Sundowns, we believe that Down syndrome is never a risk – just a chance.
A chance for connection & new beginnings.
When I first heard the words “Down syndrome”, I felt a wave of shock that I couldn’t put into words. It wasn’t what I expected, and in that moment, all the plans and pictures I had in my mind suddenly blurred. I felt scared, not of Reuben, but of the unknown.
But then I looked at him. My beautiful, tiny boy. Perfectly himself. Soft skin, tiny fingers, eyes full of warmth and light. And in that instant, I realised that nothing had really changed. He was still my Reuben. Still the baby I had longed for, carried, and loved before I even saw his face.
The shock faded, and love took its place, deeper, fiercer, and more unconditional than I ever imagined possible. Reuben may have an extra chromosome, but he also has an extra dose of joy, resilience, and sweetness. He has already taught me more about love and acceptance than I thought possible.
We’re still learning and growing as a family, but every day I’m reminded that perfection doesn’t look one way. Reuben is perfect, exactly as he is.
What You’ll Find at Sundowns
At Sundowns, we offer so much more than a support group. We’re a local community of families building friendships, sharing the journey & celebrating every ability, together.
Here’s what you’ll find when you’re ready to get involved:
Community
From monthly coffee mornings to residential weekends away, Sundowns brings families together. You’ll meet others who understand, be it chatting over tea or dancing at the disco.
Support
Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, preparing for school, or just needing to talk.
Our Team & Families are here to listen & share, often with the words of encouragement you need. We know how valuable lived experience can be.
Activities
We run a growing calendar of events all year round:
- Weekly Signing for Babies classes (a welcoming first step for many families)
- Stay & Play, farm visits, bowling, and theatre trips
- Inclusive activities like dance, drama, and sport
- Seasonal events like discos, summer days out, and festive celebrations
Join us every week or just drop in when you can, you’re always welcome.
Information
We offer real stories, trusted guidance, and practical resources to help you feel informed without being overwhelmed. And if you ever need signposting, we’re just a message away.
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart, from me, Noah, and our whole family.
Your kindness, support, and the time you so generously give mean more than words can say. In some of our hardest weeks, Signing for Babies has been something we’ve truly looked forward to, a bright spot that brings smiles, connection, and comfort.
Thank you for creating such a welcoming and understanding space, where we’ve felt not just included, but truly seen and supported. Your efforts might feel small to you, but they’ve made a massive difference to us.
We’re so grateful for all you do, and for the joy and reassurance you bring to so many families like ours.”
Want to Stay in Touch?
Whether you’re a new or expectant parent, family member, friend or someone who wants to follow and support our work, we’d love to keep in touch.
By joining our mailing list, you’ll receive:
- Updates on events, classes, and activities
- News from the Sundowns community
Helpful resources, stories, and support opportunities
Ready to Join Our Community?
If you have a child, family member or friend with Down Syndrome, you’re warmly invited to become a member of Sundowns.
There’s no cost to join, and no pressure of how or when you get involved.
As a member, you’ll receive:
- Invitations to events and activities – from baby classes to discos, workshops, and days out
- Regular updates and newsletters – so you’re always in the loop
- Access to our full support offer – including peer support, advice, and inclusive opportunities for children, teens, and young adults
Whether you’re looking for connection, reassurance, or simply to know you’re not alone, you’re welcome here.
Signing for Babies – A Great First Step
Many families first connect with Sundowns through our Signing for Babies group, and for good reason.
These weekly sessions are gentle, inclusive and full of connection. They’re designed especially for new parents and babies to learn early communication skills through simple signs, songs and play.
But they’re also about much more than signing. They’re about meeting other parents, finding confidence, and knowing that you’re not alone on this journey.
There’s no expectation, and no pressure, just a warm, welcoming space where you and your baby can bond and belong.
Explore More...
When you’re ready, there’s so much more to discover.
Use the links below to learn more about who we are, what we do, and the stories that shape our community.
About Sundowns
Get to know our team, our values, and how we support families across the Wirral.
What’s On – Events Calendar
Find out what’s coming up – from weekly sessions to discos, workshops, and day trips.
Resources & Information
Explore trusted guidance, practical tools, and links to further support.
Meet Our Families – Real Stories
Read honest, uplifting stories from parents, siblings, and young people with Down syndrome.
You’re Welcome Here – Always
There’s a welcoming community here when you’re ready.
Whether you’re ready to get involved, or just want to know we’re here. Sundowns is a place where you’ll always be welcomed. There’s community, care & connection when you need it.
If you’d like to reach out directly, ask a question, or just say hello…
Send us a message below.
Stay connected with us on social media
Follow us to see what’s happening, hear from other families, and be part of our growing community:
- Facebook Page – Updates, events, and shared stories
- Instagram – Photos, family moments, and behind the scenes
- Private Facebook Group – A closed space for parents and carers to connect, share, and support each other. Please ensure you answer all questions to gain access.