FAQ about The Down Syndrome Centre North East

1. What does DSCNE stand for?

DSCNE stands for The Down Syndrome Centre North East.

We are an independent charity that caters for children with Down Syndrome (ages 0-18) and their families, in the North East region of Ireland (namely Cavan, Monaghan, Louth, Meath and surrounding areas).

Our registered charity number is 20161132 and we are a company limited by guarantee.

We are governed by eight voluntary board members, four of which are founding parents. This ensures we continue to be family led which is very important to DSCNE.

2. When was DSCNE formed?

   A group of parents came together in 2017, frustrated at the lack of services and supports in the region. A meeting was held in Cootehill, Co. Cavan initially, but the number of families from Louth and Meath that also wished to avail of supports meant that Carrickmacross was identified as a more central location for everyone. We opened our doors on 21st October 2018 with our first adaptive dance class and have grown from there.

   
   

3. What services does DSCNE offer?

We provide dedicated services and supports to children with Down Syndrome ages 0 to 18 from across the North East. That is namely Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath, though surrounding areas are also welcome and we have had families travel from Armagh and Down too.

We provide Occupational Therapy, Speech & Language Therapy, Music Therapy,  Early Intervention Groups & School Aged support programmes as well as a varied activities schedule for both children with Ds & their siblings throughout the year and across holiday camps. Families can also benefit from Family Support, Counselling, and a place to meet other parents from their region to sit and chat with and form friendships. We have a well-stocked coffee dock and biscuit cupboard which is always open for visitors.

For more information visit: Services | The Down Syndrome Centre North East | County Monaghan

4. Where is DSCNE located?

We located in Carrickmacross Co. Monaghan in CTEK Building 1 across from Aldi and Carrickmacross Library. We are in units 15-18 upstairs on the first floor. There is a lift just to the left of the building as you enter. Our Reception and Family room is at door 18.

Satellite image from Google Maps

5. What is DSCNE’s Mission?

The Down Syndrome Centre North East provides access to therapeutic services, social activities, social events, training and information for children and young people with Down Syndrome, their families and the associated professional community in the North East of Ireland, which thereby enables and empowers them to reach their full potential.

6. How much does it cost to attend DSCNE?

All our services and supports are either free of charge or heavily subsidised.

Group intervention classes are typically €15 per session and individual therapy sessions (SLT and OT) are €25. There is also a financial support policy is place for instances where there has been a Life Event or where there is Low Income. The Board of Directors may exercise discretion and consider subsidising or waiving any costs of any projects or services delivered by DSCNE.

7. How do I secure a place for my child at DSCNE?

To secure a place for your child at DSCNE, simply follow these steps:

1. Contact Us – Reach out to us via phone, email, in person, or through our website to  let us know about you and your family..

2. Attend an Initial Visit – You’ll have the opportunity to visit the centre, meet our team, and see how we can support your child.

3. Register Your Child – We’ll guide you through the registration process and discuss the services and supports available for your child and family.

4. Join Our Sessions – Once registered and you have given consent, your child can participate in our scheduled activities and benefit from the services we offer.

   
   

   8. How often are sessions held?

Our sessions are held regularly throughout the week, after school hours and weekends, with a variety of services, supports and activities tailored to different age groups and developmental needs.

The frequency of sessions may depend on the program, availability, and your child's needs. Some may be weekly, fortnightly, monthly or when suits you and your child’s need.

We recommend checking our website, social media, or contacting us directly for the most up-to-date schedule.

9.  I’d like to make a donation to DSCNE, how do I go about it? 

Thank you for considering a donation! Your support helps us continue providing vital services for children with Down syndrome and their families. You can donate in several ways:

• Online – Visit our website to make a secure online donation.

• Bank Transfer – Contact us for our bank details if you’d like to donate directly.

• Fundraising Events – Participate in or organize fundraising events to support our centre.

• Sponsorship – Businesses and individuals can become sponsors or make corporate donations.

• In-Person – Drop by the centre to make a donation in person.

  
  

For more information on how your donation helps or to discuss other ways to contribute, feel free to contact us. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference! 💙💛

visit our website today: www.dscnortheast.ie