Action for Cerebral Palsy campaign
A new campaign by Action for Cerebral Palsy (ACP) aims to raise awareness of early signs of cerebral palsy among the general public and some healthcare professionals to avoid unnecessary delays in the early identification and referral of infants who would benefit from early intervention.
There is now a substantial body of evidence showing that identification and intervention at the earliest opportunity provides the infant at risk of cerebral palsy with the best possible outcomes in terms of future progress and independence. To raise professional and popular awareness of the importance of early identification and intervention, ACP is launching a nationwide ‘If In Doubt, Check It Out!’ campaign.
ACP has worked in consultation with an expert advisory group of leading clinicians, healthcare professionals, therapists, public affairs specialists and parents of children with cerebral palsy to develop the messaging for this campaign. A key part of the campaign has been the creation of a graphic, which has now been endorsed by the Institute of Health Visiting.
The graphic – suitable both as a physical poster and for online use – highlights in parent friendly language typical motor development at each age/stage from 0 – 3 years as well as the signs of concern and what action is recommended to parents if any of these warning signs are present.
The messaging of this campaign encourages parents to speak to their GP or Health Visitor if they have any concerns about their child’s development, but does not prejudge or presume a diagnosis. It also draws attention to the critical importance of early intervention and ongoing intensive intervention; this could have a significant and highly beneficial impact on the life chances of young children with or at risk of cerebral palsy.