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Improving access to neuro-physiotherapy

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What’s the problem?

We know that neuro-physiotherapy makes a real difference to people’s lives, but there is not enough access to this specialist treatment for people with MS in Northern Ireland.  

What are we calling for?

We want to make sure people have proper access to neuro-physiotherapy in Northern Ireland.

What are we doing?

We’ve been busy lobbying our local MLAs (members of legislative assembly) to bring the needs of people affected by MS to the attention of the Health Minister.

  • In 2010 branches invited MLA’s to come along to a branch meeting so they could meet with members and hear first hand their experiences of accessing neuro-physiotherapy. Branches asked their MLA’s to support the campaign by tabling questions on the subject at the NI Assembly.
  • Over 50 MLA’s attended ten meetings throughout Northern Ireland
  • Over 50 questions about MS were tabled at the NI Assembly
  • We hosted a reception at Parliament Buildings, Stormont during MS Week 2010 and members spoke directly to MLA’s about living with MS. This helped raise the profile of MS further within NI Assembly.
  • Our debate in the NI Assembly drew members from throughout Northern Ireland and the motion was supported by all political parties.
  • During MS Week 2010 the Health Minister announced a £50,000 spend to set up a Neurology Network
  • We’ll be launching a manifesto before the next Northern Ireland elections asking MLA’s to sign up and keep MS and neuro-physiotherapy on the political agenda.

Take action

  • If you’ve had difficulty accessing this service, write to your MLA and tell them about it.
  • Ask for a referral to see a neuro-physiotherapist. In order to show the level of unmet need for this service we need to be able to show the full extent of the waiting lists.
  • Could you be a media case study, and share your experiences on TV or radio? The most effective way to raise awareness of MS is to tell people how it affects you personally. We’ll support you all the way – call our development team on 028 9080 2802.
Page last updated: 11 Apr 2012