Huntingtons disease is caused by a faulty gene that changes the brain over time and can leave people unable to walk, talk, eat, drink and look after themselves.

It is hereditary, meaning that it impacts families across the generations. Each child of a person with Huntingtons is at 50% risk of inheriting the disease.

As Huntingtons progresses it can affect:

Movement (or motor skills): People can experience repetitive involuntary movements, mobility, balance and coordination problems and difficulties with speech and swallowing.

Thinking processes (or cognition): Including early onset dementia which affects ability to process information, make decisions, solve problems, plan and organise.

Mental health: Depression, anxiety, irritability, obsessive pre-occupations and apathy are amongst the most common mental health problems experienced. Psychosis may also occur.

Scottish Huntingtons Association (SHA) is the only charity in the country thats exclusively dedicated to supporting families impacted by Huntingtons disease.

Its nationwide network of HD Specialists provides vital wellbeing support and co-ordinate care for adults, whether they be symptomatic, asymptomatic, at risk or carers.

The Youth Service works with young people who see the disease changing their affected parent, all the while knowing their own health may be at risk.

And the Financial Wellbeing Service helps families to reduce debt, maximise income through access to benefits and financial products, and manage household budgets.