Consumer reference group

At CONNECT-CP, we believe families play a vital role in shaping services and supports for children with cerebral palsy. To ensure family perspectives are embedded throughout the project, we established the CONNECT-CP Consumer Reference Group, comprising parents and carers of children with cerebral palsy from across Western Australia.

The Consumer Reference Group provides valuable lived experience and helps guide the development of CONNECT-CP initiatives. CONNECT-CP is delivering education and training for health professionals, supporting the use of digital tools for remote assessment, and strengthening referral pathways so children and families can access support sooner. The Consumer Reference Group helps ensure these initiatives are informed by the experiences and priorities of families who have navigated the assessment, diagnosis and therapy journey.

Consumer Reference Group members provide feedback and advice on a range of project activities, including:

• Family information and educational resources
• Training and educational materials for health professionals
• Service improvements and referral pathways
• Communication and support for families navigating early assessment and diagnosis

Their insights help CONNECT-CP develop resources and systems that are meaningful, accessible, and relevant to the needs of children and families.

By bringing together the expertise of clinicians, researchers, and families, we can work towards our shared vision of earlier diagnosis, timely access to support, and improved outcomes for children with cerebral palsy throughout Western Australia.

The CONNECT-CP Consumer Reference Group has now been established and is not currently accepting new members. We thank all families who expressed interest in supporting this important work.

There will be other opportunities for parents and carers to contribute to CONNECT-CP and help shape the project. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact us at connectcp@health.wa.gov.au.