The NENC VCSE Neurology Sub-Group, part of the NENC VCSE Partnership Programme, have highlighted critical issues impacting neurology patients, carers, and their families through a Key Issues Document with the aim to share this more widely. In this blog post, Siobhan Flynn, NENC VCSE Engagement Manager, explores these issues and discusses the Sub-Group’s suggestions for improving neurology care pathways.
Understanding Neurology
Neurology involves conditions related to the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. The Neurological Alliance defines “a neurological condition is any condition that affects the brain, spinal cord and/or nerves. Because these systems control your mind and body, neurological conditions can affect the way you think and feel and interact with the world. Neurological conditions can affect anyone at any age.” With over 600 known neurological conditions, they impact 1 in 6 people in the UK.
Key Issues in Neurology Care
Following discussions within the Sub-Group, three overarching key issues were identified:
- Equality of Access: a shortage of specialist neurologists in the region, leading to long waiting times and high caseloads. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can worsen conditions and overall well-being.
- Long-term Planning: Workforce retention and legacy planning are issues, this can limit access to comprehensive care and rehabilitation.
- Awareness Raising: There is a need to enhance awareness between both the VCSE and NHS to ensure patients are informed about available support. Building relationships and networks between VCSE and NHS colleagues is essential for delivering integrated care.
Moving Forward
To address these issues, the NENC VCSE Neurology Sub-Group proposes several actions, including:
- Integrate VCSE collaboration within NHS culture, utilising the sector's local knowledge to provide tailored services.
- Ensure clinical settings inform patients about VCSE services, enhancing their support network.
- Create opportunities for VCSE and NHS professionals to build networks and develop joined-up care.
- Collaborate with local partners to develop plans based on community needs.
- Establish clear pathways for care, regardless of location, to improve access for all patients.
- Use up-to-date data to influence local planning and support needs assessments, feeding insights into regional and national strategies.
You can read the full key issues document here.
The NENC VCSE Neurology Sub-Group invites partners to engage in conversations and collaborate on solutions for the challenges identified. By working together, we can improve the neurology care experience for patients, carers, and families across North East and North Cumbria.
If you're interested in being involved in this work and the VCSE Neurology Sub-Group, you can sign up here. Please note our Sub-Groups are for people responsible for health and wellbeing policy and strategic work within their VCSE organisation.