Supporting employees with cerebral palsy in the workplace
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in every 400 children in the UK. It’s estimated that around 30,000 children and over 100,000 adults in the UK live with the condition today.
Understanding Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement, muscle tone, and posture. These are caused by damage to a baby’s developing brain, often before birth, but sometimes during or shortly after. Although the impact of CP can vary widely, many people with the condition go on to lead full, active lives – including successful careers.
While cerebral palsy can bring challenges, it doesn’t define the person. With the right support and workplace adjustments, individuals with CP can thrive in their roles and contribute meaningfully to their teams.
What causes Cerebral Palsy?
In many cases, the exact cause of cerebral palsy isn’t always clear. However, some known causes include:
- Lack of oxygen or blood supply to the brain before or during birth
- Infections during pregnancy
- Meningitis during infancy
- Bleeding in the brain
- Serious head injuries in early life
Key facts for employers
- Cerebral palsy affects around 1 in 400 children in the UK.
- It is the most common motor disability in childhood.
- Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive condition, meaning the brain injury does not worsen over time – but its effects may change as a person ages.
- Adults cannot develop cerebral palsy, but they may experience new challenges linked to ageing or muscle strain.
- Many people with cerebral palsy have a normal life expectancy and can work successfully with the right support.
- Cerebral palsy can fall under the Equality Act 2010, so reasonable adjustments should be considered to ensure equity in the workplace.
Recognising the symptoms
The impact of cerebral palsy varies significantly from person to person. For some, symptoms may affect just one limb or one side of the body; for others, they may be more extensive. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle weakness, tightness, or stiffness
- Involuntary movements
- Coordination and balance difficulties
- Tremors or shaking
- Speech and swallowing challenges
- Difficulty walking or requiring mobility aids
Treatment and ongoing management
While there’s currently no cure for cerebral palsy, there are a number of treatments and interventions that support people to live as independently and actively as possible. These might include:
- Physiotherapy – to improve movement, strength, and flexibility
- Occupational therapy – to promote independence in daily tasks, from home life to work
- Medication – to manage symptoms such as muscle spasms
- Surgery – where needed, to address mobility issues or other complications
Effective care typically involves a multi-disciplinary approach with input from healthcare and rehabilitation professionals.
Practical advice for managers
Many people with cerebral palsy are employed in a wide range of sectors. Success at work is possible — and likely — when employers understand the condition and take a person-centred approach to support.
Reasonable adjustments can make a significant difference. It’s important to consult the individual directly — they’ll often have a clear sense of what works best for them. Consider the following examples of workplace adaptations:
- Flexible or adjusted working hours
- Step-free access and accessible lifts
- Clear and unobstructed walkways
- Alternative equipment (e.g. lighter laptops, ergonomic keyboards)
- Accessible meeting formats or extended meeting times
- Trolley bags instead of backpacks for those who travel for work
- Additional training or mentoring
- Modified job tasks or workstation setups
- Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) where necessary
How Occupational Health can help
Our Occupational Health professionals are well placed to support both employers and employees in managing cerebral palsy in the workplace. We can help you understand how the condition may affect your employee’s work, what adjustments may be helpful, and how to put a sustainable plan in place that supports both the individual and your business needs.
Through tailored assessments and expert advice, we help ensure a safe, inclusive, and productive working environment.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can support you.
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