The Louth/Meath Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland was founded in 1982 and today supports approximately 270 member families across Counties Louth and Meath.
Our branch is run entirely on a voluntary basis by a committee elected annually at our Annual General Meeting (AGM). Guided by our motto, “Families Supporting Families,” we work together to provide information, support, opportunities, and friendship for people with Down syndrome and their families throughout every stage of life.
Our committee meets monthly, and we warmly welcome new members who would like to become involved in helping shape the future of our branch.
Our mission is to help people with Down syndrome create bright, independent futures by providing education, support, advocacy, and friendship at every stage of life.
Established in 1982, our Early Intervention Home Teacher Programme supports preschool children with Down syndrome aged between 1 and 6 years throughout Louth and Meath.
Our Home Teachers visit families every fortnight during the school year, providing approximately 20 visits annually. Sessions typically last between one and two hours and focus on play-based learning activities that encourage children to develop communication, social, cognitive, and motor skills alongside their parents.
Home Teachers can also liaise with preschools and primary schools to support successful educational transitions.
The programme is managed by parent volunteers within the branch and supported by a Home Teacher Programme Coordinator, who is also a parent of a child with Down syndrome.
We currently employ five part-time Home Teachers.
Programme Enquiries:
Email: earlyinterventionprogrammedslm@gmail.com
In partnership with LMETB and Down Syndrome Ireland, we provide Further Education programmes in Navan and Dundalk. These courses support school leavers and adults with Down syndrome to continue learning, develop new skills, build confidence, and achieve their full potential through lifelong education.
All fully paid-up members of the Louth/Meath Branch are eligible to apply for our annual Funding Scheme.
The scheme helps families cover the cost of therapies, sports programmes, and recreational activities that benefit members with Down syndrome.
Full details, application information, and Terms & Conditions are available through the branch.
We believe that adults with Down syndrome should have access to meaningful employment that matches their interests, skills, and ambitions within their local communities.
Through the Down Syndrome Ireland National Employment Programme and our Employment Support Specialist, we support adults with Down syndrome to make informed career choices, prepare for employment, and succeed in the workplace. We also work with employers to create more diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Cara Morgan
Phone: 087 163 6736
Email: caramorgan@downsyndrome.ie
Available: Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Our Regional Resource Officer (RRO) provides information, guidance, and support to people with Down syndrome and their families.
The RRO helps members understand their rights and entitlements, access local services and supports, and navigate education, health, and social care systems. Where services are lacking, the RRO works alongside the branch and the Down Syndrome Ireland National Team to advocate for improved supports and opportunities.
Mike Egan
Phone: 085 861 8866
Email: mike@downsyndrome.ie
Throughout the year, we organise a variety of educational workshops, training sessions, and information events, including:
We also host talks and seminars delivered by Down Syndrome Ireland specialists on topics such as:
Our monthly Coffee Mornings provide a welcoming opportunity for parents and family members to connect, share experiences, and build friendships with other local families.
Details of upcoming Coffee Mornings are shared on our social media channels.
We organise a range of family-friendly social events throughout the year, including:
These events provide valuable opportunities for members and families to connect, celebrate, and build lasting friendships.
We are proud to offer a wide variety of programmes designed to promote social inclusion, creativity, wellbeing, confidence, and independence.
Activities include:
For information on any of our activities and programmes, please contact our Branch Administrator.
Brendan Stephenson
Phone: 083 897 2044
Email: info@louthmeath.downsyndrome.ie
Parentlink offers peer support and guidance for families.
Eleanor Cosgrove
Phone: 087 667 1393
Sirpa Makinen
Phone: 086 861 4970
The Branch Committee meets monthly and plays a vital role in delivering services and activities for our members.
We are always delighted to welcome new committee members and volunteers. If you would like to become involved, please contact us.
