Consett photographer launches Down's syndrome project

A photographer who likes to celebrate people not normally found in the limelight has turned her camera on children with Down's syndrome.

Debbie Todd, from near Consett in County Durham, said she wanted to "highlight some amazing children" with her project called Extra Ordinary.

The campaign is being launched on 21 March, World Down's Syndrome Day.

She has already met children from the north east of England but is eager to photograph others from across the country.

Down's syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome and causes differing levels of ability in different people.

Ms Todd, who has won awards for her work with people with disabilities, said children with Down's syndrome were "exactly the same as all other children", with "their own personalities" and "sense of self and style".

She said: "We want to show the world how these children, like all children, are very unique in their own way but are just children, finding their own way in the world."

Ms Todd is aiming to put together an exhibition in March 2025 "showcasing the stories of some children with Down's syndrome, to normalise it and promote inclusion".

Laura, whose two-year-old daughter Lucy is one of those to have already been photographed, said: "We've learnt how unique every child with Down's syndrome truly is.

"Raising awareness like this is so important. Having an extra chromosome really does make children with Down's syndrome extra ordinary."

Ms Todd shared the stories of some of those children she has already met.

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