DS GAME ON nominated for Community Project of the Year at London Football Awards

Now in its second year following a successful pilot, DS GAME ON helps young people with Down’s Syndrome build confidence, independence and employment skills through tailored workshops and hands-on experiences with our expert coaches.

DS GAME ON was created in response to a clear national challenge, with around 65% of people with a learning disability wanting to work, but fewer than 20% in paid employment, according to Mencap.

So by combining our ten-year-old DS Eagles programme, with our flagship employment programme GAME ON, two cohorts in Croydon and Bromley have learned cooking skills, designed t-shirts, volunteered in a care home and taken part in creative projects amongst much more.

One standout moment saw the group record a charity single, a cover of Crystal Palace’s walk-out song Glad All Over, which was played on BBC Radio London and featured on ITV London News, released just as Palace were facing Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-final last year.

Across its first two years, DS GAME ON has supported 31 young people with Down’s Syndrome to develop confidence, independence and employability skills. Four participants from the first cohort now mentor the second, while others have taken on volunteering roles, completed training and stepped into environments they once found intimidating.

One participant, Thomas, discovered a passion for cooking through DS GAME ON and has since secured part-time work while studying for a Level 2 Catering qualification. His full story can be watched below.

Mike Summers, our CEO, spoke on the BBC Radio London Breakfast Show this morning:

“Our aim with DS GAME ON is to build confidence with young people with Down’s Syndrome, to bring skills and independence, but also to show employers in South London that young people with Down’s Syndrome can make a difference and can deliver great outcomes.”

We’re thrilled to have been nominated by the panel at London Football Awards and they will take place later this year, celebrating the best of football in the capital over the last ten years.