21 Plus
739. Victoria Hughes
Victoria Hughes (right), from Monmouthshire, set up a support group for mothers of children with Down’s Syndrome.
Victoria founded 21 Plus alongside Katharina Barker (left) in 2003 to help parents and schools support children with Down’s Syndrome. They have since supported over 100 families by providing speech and language therapy workshops, an annual sport and speech camp, and an annual conference for schools and teachers.
In a personal letter to Victoria, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“The work of 21 Plus supports over a hundred families to lead happy lives and you fundamentally improve their children’s ability to fulfil their potential through your speech and language therapy lessons and collaboration with educators.”
Victoria said:
“It is great honour to receive this award on behalf of 21 Plus. We have built our group from a small coffee morning to a large network across South Wales and into neighbouring counties in England. This would not have been possible without the support and enthusiasm of the families we work with and the support from the Down’s Syndrome Association, our trustees and our committee. We believe passionately in creating opportunities for our children and young people with Down’s Syndrome to participate fully in all aspects of life. We are delighted that the Prime Minister has recognised our group and appreciate the support and encouragement this award offers.”