Neurological conditions affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. They are often the result of illness or injury.

There is a very wide range of neurological conditions, and they can affect people in very different ways. Some neurological conditions are present from birth such as cerebral palsy, others develop at a later stage in life - from childhood to old age.

Some conditions are genetic, such as Huntington’s disease while others are caused by infections such as meningitis. The cause of many conditions remains uncertain.

Some neurological conditions are very common but some are extremely rare.

Most neurological conditions affect people's quality of life and some will cause life-long impairments. While some conditions can be cured or managed as long-term conditions, some conditions are progressive or terminal.

It is important that people affected by a neurological condition receive the right care and treatment at the right time.

We are pleased to publish two new resources to help unpaid carers, carer centres, and health and social care professionals who care for someone with a neurological condition, or support those providing care:

In 2023 we published three new factsheets to help people with neurological conditions, and their carers, access personalised support.

Self Directed Support for Adults: Information for Health and Social Care Professionals

Self Directed Support for Adults: Information for the Voluntary Sector

Self Directed Support for Children: What to Expect - Information for Parents

In 2021 we developed some guidance for people who care for those with neurological conditions.

There are three resources available:

For the most up to date list of carers centres in Scotland along with their contact details and further information, please refer to this list from Care Information Scotland: Support for carers/ carers centres

Neurological Care Standards

NHS HIS (Healthcare Improvement Scotland) General Standards for Neurological Care and Support (2019)

These are the most recent standards of care for neurology which aim to ensure consistency in the approach to neurological care and support services across Scotland. They are applicable to anyone living with a neurological condition in Scotland.

NHS QIS (Quality Improvement Scotland) Neurological Health Services Clinical Standards (2009)

These are the original standards of care which include generic standards for neurology as well as condition specific standards of care for epilepsy, MS, MND, Parkinson's and headache.

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