Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week has begun, with this year’s theme Together Against Loneliness. The week aims to celebrate people with Down’s syndrome and raise awareness of the importance of inclusion, independence and community.

At Carmel College, we are proud to celebrate one of our alumni, Ella, who is living a busy, independent and thriving life.

Ella currently works at AppleCast Farm in Wigan, where she helps care for the animals and plays an important role in the day-to-day activities on the farm. She is also a trainee at The Hamlet in Wigan, where she has developed a range of valuable skills by working in different areas including the café, the print room and the shop. Ella enjoys being part of a team and continues to grow in confidence as she develops her abilities in a variety of working environments.

Outside of work, Ella has an active social life. She enjoys spending time with friends, going on date nights and attending concerts. She is also becoming increasingly independent, confidently using public transport to travel to the places she enjoys.

Everyone at Carmel College is incredibly proud of Ella and all that she has achieved since leaving college. Her determination, confidence and independence are inspiring, and it is wonderful to see her embracing new opportunities and thriving.

As part of Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week, people across the country will also be marking World Down Syndrome Day by wearing brightly coloured, mismatched socks. The colourful socks are a fun and visible way to start conversations and raise awareness about Down’s syndrome.

We are delighted to celebrate Ella during this important week and to highlight the achievements of people with Down’s syndrome in our community.