AQW 42302/22-27
Ms Connie Egan
Alliance Party
North Down
Tabled Date: 11/03/2026
Answered On Date: 24/04/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail the early intensive therapy programmes there are for babies and children with cerebral palsy and other neurological conditions.
Answer:
All children with cerebral palsy in Northern Ireland are supported through existing commissioned paediatric and community services and receive individualised therapy programmes following specialist assessment delivered through a multidisciplinary team (MDT) including medical, nursing, allied health professional and psychology input. Clinical psychology within the neurodisability service plays a key role in identifying barriers and supporting the person, family, and MDT to overcome them. The assessments provided by the service are specifically used to guide the MDT care plans and interventions together with relevant adaptations consistent with the child’s cognitive and communication needs. The Regional Children’s Neurodisability Service in Belfast HSC Trust provides specialist oversight for children and young people with cerebral palsy and complex neurodevelopmental conditions, working in partnership with community paediatric teams and locally based services. A specialist nursing workforce supports children and families through the Regional Neurodisability Service and across community and school settings, contributing to co-ordinated care. Children and young people with cerebral palsy may also receive input from other specialist services, including paediatric neurology, orthopaedics and respiratory medicine, to support holistic management of co-morbidities and planned interventions.
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