Neurological conditions

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Neurological conditions overview

Neurological conditions result from damage to the brain, spinal column, or peripheral nerves. Some conditions are life threatening, with many severely affecting people’s quality of life.

There are over 600 types of neurological conditions, which are:

• sudden onset conditions, such as acquired brain or spinal cord injuries
• intermittent and unpredictable conditions, such as epilepsy, ME, certain types of headaches, or the early stages of multiple sclerosis (MS)
• progressive conditions, such as motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s disease, or later stages of MS
• stable conditions, such as post-polio syndrome, or cerebral palsy in adults

People living with neurological disorders have complex health needs. There is a team in place to help you to access the support you need in the community.

Neurological conditions support

There are 2 neurology care advisors working in the community. They are a single point of contact for people with long term conditions, their carers and health and social care professionals to:

• access information
• give advice
• find relevant services and support

The service has a key role in ensuring people do not feel isolated by their condition and provides advice and guidance.

A telephone service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Call 01209 318106 for more information. There is an answer phone service out of hours.

As part of the neurological conditions’ pathway, care advisors work to support people, promoting joined up working across services. They help people to navigate their way through services available in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Our advisors work closely with health and social care professionals, ensuring continuity of care and support. The service aims to promote self-management by providing clear and reliable information and support.

Parkinson’s nurse specialist service

Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust provide a Parkinson’s nurse specialist service. The service provides support if you have received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Call 01209 318048, Monday to Friday, 9am and 5pm.

Resources and support groups

Cornwall Parkinson’s UK

The Parkinson’s UK Cornwall branch offers information, friendship, and support to people with Parkinson’s, their families, and carers. The branch covers a large part of Cornwall, stretching from the River Tamar to Redruth. They meet the needs of members by organising events and activities each month. View a list of events.

Spinal cord injury group

As part of the neuro rehab team, the care advisors run a support group for those affected by a spinal cord injury. The meetings are currently online and offer information and peer support. Call 01209 318106 for more information.

MS Society local groups

Local groups are now starting to meet in person again. Each group will do this at their own pace. Some will continue to run their support services and events online or by telephone.