Lucy Hindmarch
Cerebral Palsy Specialist
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong condition affecting movement and muscle control. Despite its prevalence, it remains overlooked and misunderstood.
Cerebral palsy (CP) is caused by an issue with the brain that develops before, during or soon after birth. It is a condition that affects muscle control and movement. It is the most common lifelong motor disability in the world.
With numbers in the UK similar to that of people living with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s, CP does not receive the same attention and is only just being seen as a life-long condition. Some of the main challenges are the archaic and pejorative attitudes attached to CP.
Lack of cerebral palsy support harms adulthood
Combating negative attitudes is difficult, even within the healthcare system. Adults with CP live on a precipice. While many of us receive extensive care as children, that support abruptly ends at 18. The narrative is often “this is as good as it gets.” This leaves individuals to navigate adulthood without the care or resources they need.
Scope’s CP Network and Online Community seek to provide that support. Without adequate care, people with CP can experience premature ageing. This can lead to experiencing an increase in pain and a decline in mobility, which can then restrict life choices and social participation.
CP does not receive the same
attention and is only just being
seen as a life-long condition.
Disabling societal prejudices
We are far more disabled by society’s attitudes than by our condition itself. Being denied access simply because we ‘look drunk’ — judged not for who we are, but for how we move or sound. Plus, there’s the constant disbelief: ‘You can’t have CP; you look fine.’ Since when did appearance determine diagnosis? It may surprise some to learn that a large percentage of people with CP can walk unaided. Our community is diverse, with a wide range of needs, and it’s time that was properly recognised.
Growing cerebral palsy representation
Despite the challenges I witness daily in my work with Scope’s CP Network, I remain optimistic. There is a positive shift occurring within the CP community. Representation of CP is becoming more visible in mainstream media, from shows like The Traitors to Sex Education. These portrayals help dismantle misconceptions and highlight the diverse experiences of those living with CP.
