Down Syndrome Australia (DSA) is pleased to launch the Ask About Down Syndrome App on World Down Syndrome Day today. This is the world’s first app providing information about Down syndrome, which has been developed alongside people with Down syndrome.
The app features people with Down syndrome answering questions and sharing stories about what community inclusion is, what the barriers they face, and how these issues can be addressed. The app also links to a range of resources that support and promote community inclusion.
DSA’s CEO, Dr Ellen Skladzien said: “Listening to people with Down syndrome about their experiences is key to breaking down barriers and tackling the stigma experienced by so many people with Down syndrome in the community.”
The app was co-designed and developed with people with Down syndrome. The Down syndrome Advisory Network advised on the design, participated in user testing and selected the app’s name. People with Down syndrome from across the country were filmed answering questions and talking about their experiences of inclusion.
“During this difficult time many people with disability face possible isolation, so we hope that these practical suggestions of inclusion people with Down syndrome have shared on the app, are embraced,” Dr Skladzien said.
The app is available for free from the App Store and Google Play.
Ask About Down Syndrome App Introductory Video
More information about the app, including an introductory video is available at Ask About Down Syndrome App
World Down Syndrome Day, the 21st of March, is an international awareness day promoting a better understanding of Down syndrome. This year the theme for World Down Syndrome Day is “We decide” in recognition of the right of people with Down syndrome to have full participation in decision making about matters relating to or affecting their lives.
Down Syndrome Australia partnered with Taste Creative and The Project Factory to design and deliver the app through an ILC grant funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
