Nicola has helped change the educational landscape
A MUM who started a charity to support families like hers who have a child with Down syndrome has been nominated for a Coventry and Warwickshire Heroes award.
Nicola Enoch began The Ups of Downs (TUoD) charity 11 years ago after the birth of her football-loving son Tom, who’s now 12.
In her unceasing work she has changed the education landscape in Warwickshire so that children with Down syndrome are now routinely welcomed into mainstream primary schools and are beginning to be welcomed into secondary schools. With the same boundless energy the 52-year-old is now tackling the wider community as well as bringing together the national Down syndrome community.
She said: “I started The UofD when my son Tom was almost 18 months, because I’d realised the importance and benefits of sharing knowledge and experiences with other people in the same situation.
“I’d also discovered how important early intervention is with our children so wanted to be able to offer this to others.
“I also wanted to have somewhere to go where Tom is the norm, whilst I’m very pro mainstream it’s important to also have time with other families who have a child with DS – for parents, brothers, sisters and the young person themselves.”
Nicola, who said she was delighted to be nominated for the title of Inspirational Person, has undertaken extensive training and devoted her- self to the successful development of the charity that supports 50 families across Warwickshire and surrounding counties.
She has contacted professionals who come into contact with babies and children with Down syndrome to dispel myths and educate.
Tickets have gone on sale for the glittering Coventry and Warwickshire Heroes awards ceremony at the Ricoh Arena on Friday May 26.
Our winners will share the stage with hosts TV presenter Emma Jesson and Cov Kid John Dalziel, the host of Free Radio’s breakfast show.
The event will raise money for Sky Blues in the Community.
The Ricoh Arena-based cause funds itself while tackling big issues such as mental health, obesity, substance misuse and inequality.
Tickets are available at www.ricoharena.com/coventryheroes/ or by calling 024 7678 6411.