Written question WQ98334

Babies at risk of cerebral palsy receive clinically proven early intervention through established neonatal pathways and evidence‑based practice. Those identified as being at increased risk—such as babies born under 32 weeks’ gestation, with low birth weight, or with abnormal cranial ultrasound findings—receive neonatal physiotherapy as in‑patients and are then followed up in the community through the multidisciplinary neonatal screening service. Standardised, evidence‑based assessments are used to support early identification and intervention, in line with the NICE Quality Standard for cerebral palsy and Welsh Government policy on the First 1000 Days.

Where emerging signs of cerebral palsy are identified, support is delivered by appropriately trained physiotherapists, ensuring equitable, high‑quality early intervention during the critical developmental period in the first two years of life.

The Welsh Government ensures that access to specialist treatment for children with cerebral palsy is not determined by geography or local service capacity through nationally agreed pathways of care in place across all Health Boards. These pathways ensure that children receive specialist care based on clinical need, regardless of where they live.

Cerebral Palsy Cymru (CPC) have long‑standing contractual arrangements, and accept referrals, from all health boards in Wales. This ensures children can access specialist outreach services in their local communities, particularly where families may be unable to travel to the organisation’s centre in Cardiff. Services provided by CPC are commissioned through a national service level agreement, ensuring consistent and equitable access to care across Wales.

CPC provides highly specialist therapy delivered by expert physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists who are at the forefront of clinical practice. Their interventions are individualised and bespoke for each child, reflecting the complexity and unique presentation of cerebral palsy. In addition, CPC also delivers a Family Support Service to support and empower families, as well as navigate practical and financial issues they may face.

In partnership with NHS Wales, CPC co‑leads the Cerebral Palsy Register for Wales—making Wales the first nation in Great Britain to establish such a register. NHS Community Therapists can also access CPC training programmes to upskill, strengthen local expertise and support consistent, high‑quality care.