Most people have never heard of Williams Syndrome. We want to change that!
As Williams Syndrome is so rare, only 1 in 35 doctors will have met someone with WS. This means that almost every time a parent meets a new health professional, they have to explain Williams Syndrome and how it impacts their child. Parents face the same issue within education and social care.
By raising awareness of Williams Syndrome we can improve early diagnosis and intervention, encourage policy makers to increase access to services and fund research as well as reduce feelings of isolation and discrimination.
We can also help to create a more inclusive society and improve access to appropriate medical care.
People with WS generally need lifelong care and support and usually outlive their parents. Parents constantly worry about who will care for their children after they are gone, and whether they will understand Williams Syndrome.
How you can get involved
We have come up with some great ideas of how you can help raise awareness of Williams Syndrome!
- Connect with us!
Make sure you are following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter so you can re-share our content and tag us in yours so we can share it.
Remember to always use the hashtags:
#WilliamsSyndrome #WilliamsSyndromeAwareness #WSF
Facebook: Williams Syndrome Foundation UK
Twitter: @WSF_UK
Instagram: @WSF_UK
LinkedIn: Williams Syndrome Foundation
Social Media Posts – We have created a selection of social media templates that you can download and use on your own personal social media platforms
Instagram Post 1
Social Media Profile Picture
You can download and use our social media profile picture
Profile Picture
Information leaflet and Posters
You can download, print and share our WS Awareness information leaflet and poster to hand out at school work or any local clubs.
Information leaflet WS Awareness Poster
Merchandise
Stand out in the crowd and raise awareness in one of our new red hoodies or our new Heart awareness t-shirts, both available to buy from our online shop NOW!
We also have a range of other t-shirts, pin badges, caps and more to help get the conversations started!
Hoodies – £16.00
T-shirts £8
Resources
We have a wide range of resources, guidelines, videos and webinars available to download through the members area of our website.
Resources for Schools
Some schools love to get involved over awareness month and we have a selection of resources available for children including an easy to read information leaflet and colouring in sheets.
Fundraising
If you would like to take on a challenge fundraising challenge during Williams Syndrome Awareness Month but need some inspiration, take a look at our fundraising page for resources, ideas and all the information that you need to start your fundraising journey.
Video Content
Video content is great way to get people involved.
- May is Williams Syndrome awareness month and I’ll be doing xxx to raise awareness.
- ‘I’m sharing my heart with xx for Williams Syndrome’
- ‘Share your Heart for WS’ in sign language / Makaton
- ‘I nominate xx to share their heart(s) for Williams Syndrome’ then that person must video themselves nominating the next person and so on.
- Have a go at live video streaming at your event. Tell people what you are doing, where you are doing it and why!
- Include the #’s #shareyourheart #williamssyndrome #WSF_UK
- Link to website williams-syndrome.org.uk
Local Press / Radio
If you are planning an awareness event, contact your local newspaper or radio station and let them know. If you need help with press releases or emails, please contact Camille.hollington@williams-syndrome.org.uk
