Every year on 6th October, the world comes together to raise awareness of Cerebral Palsy and to celebrate and support those living with Cerebral Palsy, and the individuals and organisations who support them.
The movement was started in 2012 by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. It is now supported by 450 Cerebral Palsy organisations, universities, parent groups, research institutions, student groups, schools and hospitals from over 100 countries.
What is Cerebral Palsy
There is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, it is a lifelong disability affecting around 17 million people throughout the world. It is complex and varies significantly from one individual to another, with symptoms ranging from a weakness in one hand to a complete lack of voluntary movement throughout the body.
In addition to physical symptoms, the complexities of Cerebral Palsy can also leave many people feeling lonely, isolated and socially excluded, which are important issues that can be extremely detrimental to peoples welfare.
Supporting people with Cerebral Palsy in Bristol
Cerebral Palsy Plus is a small independent charity based in Bristol. We provide a wide range of services for people of all ages with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and their families and carers. Anyone living in a BS postcode can access support from our charity.
We currently support 375 members which is more than ever before. We have 160 adult members and 215 family members with a child with CP who is under 18 years of age. Our main aim is to improve the lives of people living with Cerebral Palsy in our local community and help people to live as independently as they wish.
Services available in Bristol include, a weekly Friendship Club for adults, a children’s swimming club and activities for young adults. We also delver a number of social, leisure and sport activities throughout the year, from our annual accessible sailing day, to outings to the cinema or bowling. In addition, we operate a small grants scheme, which offers financial assistance to our members. This can help them with the purchase of items such as mobility or communication aids and sensory toys.
Going Green for World Cerebral Palsy Day
Green is the colour for the World Cerebral Palsy Day campaign, as it is associated with new growth and vibrant lives. Around the world several landmarks will illuminate green, helping to raise vital awareness for Cerebral Palsy, which is one of the most common but least understood disabilities.
We are delighted that the Mayor of Bristol is supporting this year’s campaign by illuminating Bristol City Hall green on the evening of the 6th of October. The City Hall will join a number of other UK landmarks including Swansea Guildhall, Harlech Castle and Blackpool Tower.
Cerebral Palsy Plus are excited to have joined forces with National Charity Scope and Cerebral Palsy Adult Advice UK to arrange for a record braking number of landmarks to illuminate green this year.
To find out more about the services Cerebral Palsy Plus offer visit – www.cerebralpalsyplus.org.uk or to find out more about World Cerebral Palsy Day and how you can get involved, visit www.worldcpday.org