People in Rotherham urged to rock their odd socks for World Down's Syndrome Day

Despite being at the forefront of the coronavirus crisis, staff from the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust are preparing to wear their finest, mismatched socks to help raise awareness about Down’s syndrome.

The teams at Rotherham Hospital are inviting patients, their families and colleagues to donate £1 to show off their super socks.

All funds raised will be spilt equally between the Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity and the Down's Syndrome Association. 

Jackie Durban, one of the trust’s lead midwives for antenatal and newborn screening, said the theme for World Down's Syndrome Day this year was "We decide" - which aims to empower people with Down’s syndrome to get involved in making decisions about things which affect their lives. 

“Wearing odd, colourful socks will hopefully be a great ice-breaker to get everyone talking about how we can support people of all ages with Down’s syndrome to advocate for change," added Ms Durban. 

“Our role in the antenatal and newborn screening unit is also to support families through the screening process and to help them make informed decisions about their future if they are given unexpected results.

"Just like any diagnosis, learning about Down’s syndrome can be an unsettling and anxious time for parents."

Ms Durban said she hoped hope their event would help to raise awareness about the wealth of medical and non-medical support there was in Rotherham and nationally to support parents in their decision making and planning for the future.

World Down’s Syndrome Day is typically held on March 21 to signify the extra 21st chromosome detected in a baby’s cells which leads to a Down’s syndrome diagnosis.

Charity collection tins will be located on Wharncliffe Ward, Labour Ward, Children’s Ward, Clinical Coding and at Greenoaks at Rotherham Hospital.

Donations can also be made directly to the Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, based on D Level in the corporate secretariat at Rotherham Hospital.

Mike Smith, chair of the charitable funds committee, said: “Wearing your odd socks and donating £1 is such a simple fundraising idea but one we can all get behind.

"I will certainly be wearing mine, and we hope trust colleagues, patients and their families have a fun day wearing their funky footwear while supporting two great causes."