A TODDLER with Down’s syndrome is helping to raise awareness of the condition that affects him and lots of other people around Swindon.

Two-year-old Kylo Archer is the face of the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group’s week-long campaign.

His mum Jodie Morris uses her experience raising Kylo to help new mums in the group.

She said: “He is a happy crazy boy who is loved by all our family and friends and is a local celebrity.

"I find it hard to explain to people what its like to have a child with Down's because to me I am a parent just like any other and we don’t treat him any differently.

“I have met some lovely new friends through this group whose children will be growing up with Kylo, so its great knowing that they will always be supported. Having your child diagnosed with Down's may not be easy but knowing the support is out there and meeting other parents in a similar situation can really help you feel like you are not alone.”

Group trustee Cailey Whitcher said: “It’s very important to raise awareness of Down’s syndrome because there are a lot of misconceptions about it.

"We’ve heard of doctors following the diagnosis to new parents with ‘we’re sorry’ but it’s not doom and gloom.

"We work with GWH to give congratulations boxes with blankets, toys, cards and information to parents of children with Down’s syndrome.

"My brother has the condition and the outlook was much worse when he was born but he’s in his 30s now and still going strong.”

The group is selling colourful odd socks throughout the week with the help of Wiltshire Police and local businesses to raise money for its WorkFit scheme. The scheme provides support to young people with Down’s in paid employment, work experience or training to help them progress into full-time work, and provides valuable training and resources to employers.