Neurological conditions: the case for a Modern Service Framework

Everyone living with a neurological condition should be able to live life to the fullest. But the NHS and social care are not meeting their needs.

Together with people affected by neurological conditions, the MS Society and more than 30 leading patient organisations and professional bodies, we’re calling on the government to deliver a national plan for neuro – a Modern Service Framework for neurological conditions.

Together, we have developed the case for a dedicated Modern Service Framework for Neurological Conditions, outlining what it could achieve, how it can be implemented and the actions necessary to make it happen.

Please show your support for a Modern Service Framework for neurological conditions by adding your signature to an open letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

The open letter calls on government to introduce a Modern Service Framework for neurological conditions. Anyone in the UK can add their signature and show their support.

What is a Modern Service Framework?

Modern Service Frameworks are decade-long NHS reform plans, built around national standards and clear accountability, that have already been committed to for other conditions. They are how the Government drives sustained, systemic change. They are not a short-term fix but a long-term commitment.

A once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform neuro care

At least 1 in 6 people in England have a neurological condition. Neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability globally and cost the UK economy £96 billion a year. Neurological conditions affect millions of people yet there is no dedicated long-term improvement plan for neurological health and care services in England.

 What we’re calling for

Our report, The Case for a Modern Service Framework for Neurological Conditions, proposes a clear, system-wide ambition – the “moonshot” ambition for the Modern Service Framework for neurological conditions: Reduce avoidable emergency admissions for neurological conditions by 30% within 10 years.

Delivering on this ambition is underpinned by five pillars for change:

1. Right people: a sustainable, multidisciplinary workforce, working at the top of their skills, with care coordination as a universal standard.
2. Right care: equitable, needs-based care that integrates physical, mental and social support, not limited by diagnosis or postcode.
3. Right time: earlier intervention, proactive monitoring and rapid access to specialist advice to prevent deterioration.
4. Right place: a shift from hospital-centred care to integrated, community and neighbourhood models, backed by specialist networks.
5. Right systems: robust data, digital infrastructure and accountability to drive improvement and reduce variation.

Supporting organisations

We have bought together a powerful coalition of organisations and supporters from across the neuro sector in support of a Modern Service Framework for neurological conditions. We’re calling on the government to act for the one in six people living with a neurological condition: