Recognising that a child may have been impacted by a serious injury while receiving maternity care is a shocking discovery for families.
Processing the fact that permanent, and life changing harm has been inflicted on a loved one and suspecting that better care could have resulted in an entirely different outcome, is understandably painful.
This guide is for parents who suspect that their hospital failed to provide safe maternity care causing permanent harm to their child.
What is cerebral palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong neurological condition caused by damage to a baby’s developing brain. This often happens before, during, or shortly after their birth. The damage affects movement, muscle tone, posture, and coordination. CP is not a progressive condition which means that it does not get worse over time, but the challenges a child faces can change as they grow and develop.
Sometimes avoidable CP may have been caused by:
- Prolonged oxygen starvation experienced by a baby before, during, or after their birth due to inadequate, delayed, or inappropriate medical care
- Untreated infections such as Group B Strep
- Complications in pregnancy or labour that may have been mitigated with the right medical intervention
Early signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy
Every child is different, but some early signs of CP can include:
- Missed developmental milestones
- Weak arms and legs
- Fidgety or clumsy movements
- Walking on tiptoes
- Shaking hands or tremors
- Muscle spasms
- Stiff or floppy body
- Random, uncontrolled movements
- Seizures
- Abnormally curved spine
- Eye or vision problems
- Difficulty sleeping
- Incontinence or constipation
If you have concerns, trust your instincts and speak to your GP or health visitor. Early support can make a big difference to your child easing some of the stress on the entire family.
The four different types of cerebral palsy
Understanding the type of CP a child has can help make sense of their needs and make it easier to identify the right support.
1. Spastic cerebral palsy
The most common type. Muscles are stiff and tight, making movement difficult. Children may struggle with walking, balance, and fine motor skills.
2. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy
This affects muscle control, causing involuntary movements. Movements may be slow, writhing, or jerky, and can affect the face, arms, and legs.
3. Ataxic cerebral palsy
This type mainly affects balance and coordination. Children may appear shaky or unsteady and find precise movements (like writing) difficult.
4. Mixed cerebral palsy
Some children show signs of more than one type. For example, spasticity and involuntary movements together.
How cerebral palsy is diagnosed
There is no single test for CP. Diagnosis often involves a combination of observations and medical investigations, including:
- MRI scans – providing detailed images of the brain
- CT scans – to identify structural brain changes
- Ultrasound scans – often used in babies
- Blood tests – to rule out genetic or metabolic causes
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) – to assess seizures or abnormal brain activity
In the UK, diagnosis usually involves a paediatrician and may include referrals to specialists such as neurologists.
Cerebral palsy care: a multi-disciplinary approach
Supporting a child with CP works best when professionals work together. A multi-disciplinary approach means your child may be supported by a team of specialists, each helping in different ways.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists focus on movement, strength, balance, and posture. Therapy can help:
- Improve walking and sitting
- Reduce stiffness
- Build muscle strength
- Prevent joint problems
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapists help children develop everyday life skills, such as:
- Dressing and feeding
- Using their hands effectively
- Playing and learning
- Becoming more independent at home and school
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech therapists support:
- Communication (speech, signs, or communication aids)
- Swallowing and feeding difficulties
- Building confidence in social interactions
Medication
Medication may be used to help with:
- Muscle stiffness and spasms
- Pain
- Seizures
- Associated conditions such as sleep difficulties
Your child’s medical team will tailor treatments to their individual needs.
Why early intervention matters
The earlier support begins, the better the outcomes for many children with CP. Early intervention can:
- Improve mobility and communication
- Support brain development
- Reduce long-term complications
- Build confidence and independence
In the UK, early support may involve NHS services and early years teams.
Equipment and aids for children with cerebral palsy
Many children benefit from specialist equipment to support mobility, comfort, and independence, including:
- Wheelchairs – manual or powered
- Walkers and canes – to support walking
- Assistive equipment – for play, communication, and learning
- Supportive devices – for transport, hygiene, and eating
- Seating systems and posture supports
Occupational therapists and physiotherapists can assess what is most suitable for your child and help with NHS or local authority provision.
Helping your child sleep well
Sleep difficulties are common in children with CP. Gentle, consistent routines can help:
- Daily exercise – suited to your child’s abilities
- A good diet – balanced meals to support digestion and comfort
- A calming bedtime routine – bath, story, quiet time
- Comfortable positioning and supportive bedding
- Keeping the bedroom calm, dark, and soothing
If sleep problems persist, a GP or paediatrician can help explore further support.
Your legal rights as a parent
Sometimes cerebral palsy is caused by avoidable medical errors, such as failure to treat infections like Group B Strep or delays in responding to oxygen deprivation during birth.
If you suspect that your child’s cerebral palsy may have been caused by substandard medical care, you have the right to seek legal advice and potentially take action against the hospital or healthcare provider. This can help families access financial support for lifelong care, therapies, and equipment.
Specialist birth injury solicitors can advise on whether medical care fell below acceptable standards and whether a claim may be possible.
You are not alone
A diagnosis of cerebral palsy does not define your child’s future. With early intervention, the right care, and compassionate support, many children with CP grow into happy, capable individuals with their own unique talents and personalities.
The team at Diane Rostron offers extensive expertise in this complex area of law. If you believe that your hospital is at fault for your child’s permanent disability, contact us for a confidential chat to discuss starting a claim for compensation.