Thank you for writing to me about care for people with neurological conditions.
I understand that there are over 600 known neurological conditions, ranging from sudden onset conditions, through intermittent and unpredictable conditions and progressive conditions to stable conditions.
In November 2021, the Government announced an additional £375 million of investment over the next five years to improve our understanding and treatment of a range of neurodegenerative conditions.
Given the impact of neurological conditions, the former Prime Minister Boris Johnson committed to publish developing a cross-department strategy in November 2021 to help address the issues faced by people living with acquired brain injury (ABI).
A call for evidence around the strategy took place at the start of 2022, and people affected by ABI were invited to put forward their views about what should be prioritised and included.
Issues covered in the strategy could include guidance to prevent ABI and research into the causes of ABI and I will be sure to follow developments closely. The call for evidence also sought feedback on whether other neurological conditions should be included in the strategy.
Later this year, NHS England will develop a Long Term Workforce Plan, which will include independently verified forecasts for the number of healthcare professionals required in future years. I understand that the plan will include those professions who work with patients with Parkinson’s Disease and other long-term neurological conditions.