Fostering a sense of belonging: persons with Down Syndrome should not feel alone, PN says

A recent study found that 39% of persons with an intellectual disability often feel lonely, the Nationalist Party said Saturday. By contrast, among persons without a disability, the proportion experiencing loneliness stands at 14%.

Another study shows that persons with an intellectual disability are seven times more likely to feel lonely than the general public.

This should not be the case. We must ensure that all those with any intellectual disability are able to live their lives to the fullest within our society and are given every possible opportunity to move forward.

The importance of collectively addressing loneliness is precisely the theme chosen for World Down Syndrome Day, being marked today, 21 March. The theme “Together Against Loneliness” was selected specifically to highlight the impact of loneliness on individuals with Down Syndrome and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion within communities so that such individuals do not feel alone.

Each year, this day serves to raise greater awareness of the rights that must be afforded to all those with Down Syndrome. These individuals have the right to dignity and to a quality of life equal to that of any other person.

On this day, the PN reiterated the need for full respect towards persons with this condition. Beyond that, we must ensure there is adequate awareness of this condition in order to eliminate stigma. Because to remove stereotypes, we must build a system that offers a fair opportunity to everyone. A modern country is not measured by fine words, but by how it treats those most in need of a voice.

The PN thanked the Malta Down Syndrome Association and other organisations that play an important role in advancing the proposals of persons with Down Syndrome and of those who work with or live alongside them, while promoting their rights. It also thanks all professionals who work with such dedication in support of persons with this condition.

The PN said it believes that to truly mark this day, there must be greater integration and respect towards persons with Down Syndrome, so that we continue to improve their quality of life.

 

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