HELPING disabled children from all over the UK reach their full potential is the aim of The Movement Centre based at Oswestry’s Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital. Founded over 20 years ago, the charity has developed Targeted Training, tailored evidence based special care for children whose disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, developmental delays and other problems, affect their movement control.

Curtis Langley, Fundraising and Physiotherapy Assistant at The Movement Centre, was the speaker at a recent meeting of The Rotary Club of Oswestry when he described the specialist physiotherapy and bioengineering techniques used by the centre to mimic the natural development of control in newborn infants. During the 9-12 month course of Targeted Training a specially designed standing frame is used; each frame is bespoke and adjusted to each child’s specific requirements to place the child in an upright position to provide stability as progress is made. As movement control is developed, the level of support is lowered from the head down with progress targeted. The frame goes home with the child so that exercises can be repeated daily, with regular 8 week reviews back at the centre.

“By intervening early with Targeted Training, future equipment, medical and carer needs are likely to be reduced. Gaining essential functional skills can increase independence, confidence and educational opportunities and have a lifetime impact” commented Curtis. “However this is a specialist therapy costing £6,250 per treatment and is ineligible for NHS funding so we work hard to receive the support of many individuals, charitable trusts, foundations and companies. Many of our families also work very hard to raise funds to contribute towards their treatment.”

Oswestry Rotary Club President Ian Haigh said “We are delighted to have nominated The Movement Centre as one of four local charities to benefit from our share of the Oswestry to Combs-la-Ville sponsored cycle ride which takes place this week. Not only will valuable funds be raised but it will also increase people’s awareness of the centre.”

Donations may be made to the sponsored cycle ride at http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/o2clv.

Pictured: Curtis Langley of Oswestry’s Movement Centre