Recent news and developments around Cerebral Palsy (CP) in the UK.
NHS England has published a new commissioning framework designed specifically for children and young people with cerebral palsy.
UK policy & support
NHS England Framework (May 2025):
NHS England published a new commissioning framework designed specifically for children and young people with cerebral palsy. The framework sets out how integrated, high-quality services should be organised across health, education, and social care, with a strong focus on early identification, comprehensive assessment, and timely interventions. The aim is to reduce delays in diagnosis and ensure children and families have access to consistent, coordinated support from birth through adolescence.
Advocacy campaigns:
Action Cerebral Palsy has continued to play a leading role in campaigning for better awareness and support. Building on its 2024 Manifesto, the organisation has launched public campaigns to raise recognition of early signs of CP, call for improvements in access to therapies, and highlight the importance of specialist education and family support.
All-party parliamentary group (APPG):
Since its establishment in 2022, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Cerebral Palsy has been pushing for more streamlined care pathways and consistent standards across the UK. The group provides a political platform to keep CP on the agenda in Westminster, ensuring that both children and adults with CP are considered in national health and social care planning.
Research & diagnosis
Neuroimaging and biomarkers:
Innovative research is focusing on the use of advanced neuroimaging techniques (such as MRI) and biological markers to predict which infants may go on to develop cerebral palsy. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these tools may allow clinicians to diagnose CP earlier and tailor treatments more precisely, improving long-term outcomes.
Preventing foetal brain inflammation (August 2025):
A new study has shown that targeting the complement pathway of the immune system could protect the developing brain from inflammation, a known driver of cerebral palsy, particularly in cases of preterm birth. If replicated, this discovery could pave the way for preventive therapies given during pregnancy, offering hope for reducing the incidence of CP in the future.
Daily life & other developments
Discrimination and lived experience:
Stories from individuals with CP continue to shed light on the daily challenges they face. For example, a man from Somerset recently spoke out about experiencing regular discrimination, underscoring the need for greater public understanding and inclusivity in workplaces and communities.
Technological aids:
Assistive technology remains a key enabler for independence. A recent ITV News feature highlighted how a simple device, found on eBay, dramatically improved the quality of life for a man with CP by easing a long-standing hand contracture, showing the transformative potential of affordable, adaptive solutions.
Adult care gaps:
Despite progress in paediatric services, adults with cerebral palsy remain underserved. A 2023 report emphasised that many individuals experience a steep decline in access to specialist care once they turn 18, with adult services often fragmented or non-existent. This gap highlights the urgent need for a national strategy to support people with CP throughout their lifespan.
If you have a family member with CP, we understand what you’re going through and how to get you the right help for your challenging situation. You can always call or email our team at AK Foundation Charity and we will do our best to get you the right support.
You can find our donation page at: https://akfoundationcharity.org/support-a-family-in-need/
To find out more about the full range of our charity work please visit www.akfoundationcharity.org