Record support from MPs at Parliamentary Neuro Reception
03/02/2025
On Thursday 16 January, 35 MPs or their representatives from across the UK attended the Parliamentary Neuro Reception hosted by The Neurological Alliance: the largest number of Members of Parliament (MPs) or representatives to attend an Alliance event in its 30-year history. The event was held to raise awareness of neurological conditions in Parliament and to celebrate the Neurological Alliance’s 30th birthday.
Following the General Election in July, over half of all MPs have been elected for the first time. MPs were able to meet people affected by neurological conditions face-to-face, gain insight into some of the challenges faced by the neurological community and connect with organisations supporting people affected by neurological conditions.
Over 1,400 people call on their MP
The event follows a public action by The Neurological Alliance, during which people were asked to invite their MPs to attend the event to learn more about neurological conditions and help create real improvements in care and support for the neurological community by using their voices in Parliament. Over 1,400 people across the UK wrote to their MPs in just one week. As a result 548 MPs received at least one letter asking them to attend the event.
Parliamentary support needed more than ever
The event was kindly sponsored by Baroness Fraser of Craigmaddie, Chief Executive of Cerebral Palsy Scotland, who spoke openly about the need for change in neurological services.
Speakers also included Paul Stevenson, a lived experience ambassador and Tourette syndrome advocate, recently featured in the Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 list; NHS England National Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis; and Cath Stanley, Chief Executive of the Huntington’s Disease Association and Chair of The Neurological Alliance Board of Trustees.
During the event, Prof. Powis thanked The Neurological Alliance for its work, and stressed the wide number of opportunities to engage with public policy, such as NHS England plans to bring down waiting lists and reform how neuro services are planned and funded. Prof Powis also welcomed The Neurological Alliance’s tests for the forthcoming 10 year plan.
Helping to create change
Speaking at the event, lived experience partner Paul Stevenson said: “It wasn’t until I was 46 years old that I was diagnosed with ADHD, Tourette’s syndrome and later autism. While I don’t dwell on the challenges of my past, I am deeply concerned about the present and the future. In comparison, today we have the knowledge. We have the understanding of these conditions. But we still lack meaningful support. In the 15 years since my diagnosis, I have yet to see a specialist consultant in Tourette’s Syndrome. Despite my efforts to educate myself and others, the reality is stark. Our medical professionals are better informed today than before, but the pathways for diagnosis and support are woefully inadequate… Be part of this movement. Help us create a future where no child is left behind because of lack of understanding and support.”
A critical moment in public policy
Following the event, Georgina Carr, Chief Executive of The Neurological Alliance, said: “Dozens of MPs and Peers are now more aware and committed to addressing shortcomings in treatment and support for people with neurological conditions as a result of this event and the action taken by members and supporters beforehand. We’d like to thank our member organisations and everyone affected by neurological conditions for making this happen, and all the MPs who attended or expressed an interest.
At such a critical moment in public policy, growing parliamentary support for people affected by neurological conditions has never been more important. With the UK Neuro Forum beginning its work this year, together with initiatives such as the NHS 10 year plan and NHS neuroscience transformation programme, a renewed parliamentary support network provides a strong basis to hold Government to account on these initiatives.”
Alexion, the rare disease arm of Astra Zeneca, provided financial support for the event but had no say over the content.
