About Bobath Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy creates short-circuits in the brain and body which result in either restricted or uncontrolled movements or, in some cases, a combination of the two. The way in which a child is affected varies enormously from slight physical difficulty to almost no muscle control, movement and speech.

The Bobath approach is primarily about finding ways of helping a child move more easily by improving control of their posture and movement. With cerebral palsy, no two cases are the same which is why at the Bobath Centre we assess and treat each child individually. This can often involve a number of specialists working together.

Children initially visit the Bobath Centre for a two-week block of treatment. This allows the therapist to get an in-depth understanding of the child’s condition and gives an opportunity to work intensively with them. On subsequent visits they may visit for shorter or more regular periods depending on their circumstances and needs.

During their visit a therapist will spend time studying the child’s ability to perform ordinary tasks.  Once they have an understanding of the child’s needs they work with them to control the adverse effects that cerebral palsy has on their body.  This often involves using specialised techniques in handling so that the child begins to achieve a greater variety and range of movement.  With practice, they can make this progress routine.

The role of parents is central to success and they are encouraged to be involved throughout. They participate in sessions where they learn handling techniques allowing therapy to continue at home. They can also talk at length to their therapist who can give advice and guidance specific to their child. The centre itself is family-friendly with bright and colourful treatment rooms, a kitchen with laundry facilities and a play area.  This holistic approach benefits the vast majority children we see and can give parents a renewed strength and optimism, confident that their child has had the best treatment available.

The Bobath Centre treats each child as an individual but the aim for all of them is the same - to help them live their life to its full potential. It often starts with small steps (sometimes literally) that lead to major progress over time. Five year-old, James summed up what it meant for him when he said, “Bobath has helped me pull my pants up”. 

The centre currently subsidises appointments so that treatment can be offered to as many children as possible. This leaves an annual shortfall that can only be made up by donations.