Acting now for the 1 in 6: creating real change

Help create real change. As an MP, you can help create real improvements in care and support for the neurological community. You can use your voice and influence to improve treatment, care and support for millions of people in the UK who live with a neurological condition.

At least 1 in 6 people living with a neurological condition in England. Neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide and affect 17,000 people on average in a UK Parliamentary constituency.

Over 10,000 people including adults, children and carers took part in My Neuro Survey 2024/25. The message is clear. Too many people affected by neurological conditions still can’t get the healthcare they need.

We’re asking you to show your support for people with neurological conditions by highlighting our recommendations, based on the survey findings. in Parliament

My Neuro Survey 2024 findings

The results of My Neuro Survey 2024, the largest patient experience survey of its kind, show that in England:

  • Just 1 in 3 respondents felt the health care they receive meets their needs.
  • Almost half (48%) do not feel supported by the health system.
  • Over a quarter of people couldn’t access a neurologist or specialist nurse in the past year.
  • More than 4 in 10 said they don’t know who to contact between appointments.
  • Three quarters said their condition impacts their ability to work or study; 6 in 10 are struggling financially.

The situation is especially stark when it comes to mental health support:

  • 69% of people who needed neuropsychiatry services couldn’t access them
  • 62% couldn’t access neuropsychology
  • 48% were unable to access counselling

Despite the challenges, the survey also highlights the positive impact of good care when it is accessible. 72% of people said they felt comfortable speaking with healthcare professionals, and 57% reported that information was clearly explained.

Key recommendations

  • Tackle critical workforce shortages in neuroscience and associated specialties in the forthcoming workforce plan.
  • Ensure the NHS 10 year plan is supported by a specific implementation plan for services for people affected by neurological conditions.
  • Implement NHS guidance that seeks to ensuring no-one is turned away from mental health services due to their neurological diagnosis.
  • Build a health system architecture that provides much needed clinical leadership and delivers transformation of services for people affected by neurological conditions.
  • Draw from the extensive work undertaken within the NHS England national neuroscience transformation programme, National Neuro Advisory Group optimal clinical pathways of care and Getting It Right First Time neurology and neurosurgery programmes.
  • Unlock the potential of the UK Neuro Forum by providing dedicated, time-limited government funding to support its coordination and engagement activities.
  • Rethink and reverse planned cuts to the health and disability benefits system and ensure any changes do not negatively impact people affected by neurological conditions.

What can you do?

Support our recommendations in Parliament:

  • Use your voice through debates, Parliamentary questions and in the press to improve support and services for people affected by neurological conditions in your constituency and across the country. Work with us, our members and people affected by neurological conditions to engage in relevant debates, table questions on neurological treatment and influence legislation.
  • Work with The Neurological Alliance and our extensive network to meet people with neurological conditions in your area, develop compelling evidence for your work in Parliament and learn more about the realities facing constituents and services.
  • Lead with compassion and dedication. Your public support for individuals with neurological conditions will demonstrate a commitment to the health and wellbeing of people, families and carers in your constituency and wider society.
  • Help build more inclusive communities. By pushing for policies that address the unique needs of people with neurological conditions, you can help to create environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Download the policy report

Download the policy report here – more detail on the findings for England and our recommendations for change, based on these findings.