Cerebral palsy (CP) affects around 130,000 adults in the UK, yet routine health checks for this community are not guaranteed. If you’re over 50, access depends entirely on whether your GP offers them. If you’re under 50, they’re not available at all.
Research shows that adults with CP are more likely to develop early-onset health conditions, including chronic pain, mobility difficulties, and cardiovascular disease. Without regular health monitoring, many end up on long hospital waiting lists—care that could have been prevented with early intervention. This gap in preventative healthcare not only impacts individuals’ well-being but also increases pressure on NHS resources.
Read the Cerebral Palsy Charter for a more detailed analysis
Our Call to Action: #GPsforCP
As CP Awareness Month approaches, we’re demanding annual health checks for ALL adults with CP, regardless of age. Recognising CP as a lifelong condition means ensuring proactive healthcare that prevents avoidable complications and improves quality of life.
Why This Matters
• Early intervention improves long-term health outcomes.
• Preventative care reduces hospital admissions and waiting times.
• Inclusion in the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) would standardise care for adults with CP across the NHS.
How You Can Help
If You Have CP:
• Over 50? Ask your GP for a long-term health check.
• Under 50? Help us push for equal access to preventative healthcare—write to your MP urging their support. We have a guide on writing to your MP here.
• Spread the word using #GPsforCP to share your experiences and raise awareness.
If You’re an MP:
• Advocate for your constituents by urging the Department of Health and Social Care to mandate annual health checks for adults with CP.
If You’re a GP:
• Offer annual health checks to adults with CP — many may not even know they are eligible.
Together, We Can Make Change Happen
Every adult with CP deserves access to preventative healthcare. This CP Awareness Month, let’s demand action.
#GPsforCP – Because Health Checks Shouldn’t Have an Age Limit.