CP-Life Research Centre

Karen Brady from CP Life Research Centre presenting a poster at the Annual RCSI Research Day in March 2026

Dr Jenny Fortune from CP Life Research Centre presenting a poster at the Annual RCSI Research Day in March 2026

Dr Chloe Forte from CP Life Research Centre presenting a poster at the Annual RCSI Research Day in March 2026

Dr Colm Daly from CP Life Research Centre presenting a poster at the Annual RCSI Research Day in March 2026

Jennifer Fortune, Karen Brady, Colm Daly PhD and Chloe Forte were proud to showcase some of the latest work from CP Life Research Centre at the recent RCSI Annual Research Day.
Read more at: lnkd.in/ecpR7B7t @rcsi.bsky.social @rcsi-physio.bsky.social
#cerebralpalsy #research #RCSIResearchDay

Our Centre is growing and WE'RE HIRING 2 Post-Doctoral Researchers

Closing Date: February 2nd
You can find full details and the application links here
lnkd.in/df_cH4QC
lnkd.in/dvvtxw5K

@cplifecentre.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social @rcsi-physio.bsky.social
#postdoc #research #jobs #rcsicareers

Group of 7 women standing outside a cafe, smiling and posing for a photograph.

Thank you and goodbye to Shona McGuinness who has played such a valuable role on our team. We truly appreciate your contribution and we wish you every success in future. We’re also delighted to welcome Chloe Forte and we look forward to working together. @rcsi.bsky.social @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

There is still time to join. There are a few spaces remaining.
Recruitment closes in just 3 weeks. @rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social #cerebralpalsy #exercise #physicalactivity #research #community

From Passenger to Pilot: Navigating Pathways of Support in the Journey to Adulthood “From Passenger to Pilot: Navigating Pathways of Support in the Journey to Adulthood” was part of the IAACD Global Listening & Sharing Series. Hosted…

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025,
“Fostering disability-inclusive societies,” see reflections "From Passenger to Pilot", exploring support pathways for young people with cerebral palsy transitioning to adulthood. vimeo.com/1138030622
#IDPD2025 #Inclusion #IAACD #cerebralpalsy

CP-Excel study 👉 For more information visit. https://bit.ly/cpexcelonline

Join CP-EXCEL ONLINE
Watch the video below to hear directly from two participants as they share their experiences and insights from taking part
tinyurl.com/3r69vr8n
Learn more: tinyurl.com/5ynt9cm9
or email manikandanmanjula@rcsi.com
#cerebralpalsy #exercise #physicalactvity #research #community

Poster titled “Brain-Restore Childhood and Youth: Enhancing Survivorship Through Rehabilitation for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults After Childhood Brain Tumours.” Includes sections: About childhood brain tumours: Lists facts about prevalence, long-term effects, rehabilitation needs, and challenges. Why are we doing this study? Explains goals: understanding rehabilitation needs, conducting interviews, measuring cognitive function, and co-designing solutions. Features QR code for more information and logos for Brain Restore Childhood and Youth, RCSI, and HRB.

The BRAIN-RESTORE Childhood and Youth study is now Recruiting! Were you (or your child) diagnosed with a brain tumour during childhood or adolescence?
Scan QR code to learn more/express interest
#ChildhoodBrainTumour #Rehabilitation #PPI #Research #YoungSurvivors #RCSI #BrainHealth #PatientVoice

Text reads: Latest news. Below is the green and teal CP Life logo. Below that text reads: News 14 October 2025. September 2025 - read our latest Newsletter.

We’re pleased to share the September 2025 edition of our CP-Life Research Centre newsletter, including updates on new projects, research findings and events: tinyurl.com/2kpckwn3
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social
#cerebralpalsy #mentalhealth #healthcaretransition

Promotional graphic for the CP-Life Research Centre, focused on Cerebral Palsy Lifespan Health & Well-being Research. The background is orange with the CP-Life logo at the top. Text on the left reads: “United in Change. My viewpoints and experiences are being listened to. It's important that lived experience and research are used in tandem.” A hashtag "#UNIQUEANDUNITED" appears in bold on a yellow background. On the right, there is a photo of an individual sitting in a chair with sunglasses on their head.

Promotional graphic for the CP-Life Research Centre, focused on Cerebral Palsy Lifespan Health & Well-being Research. The background is orange with the CP-Life logo at the top. Below, text reads "Unique Voice," and a quote: “It was nice to voice my opinion, and see how some people had the same opinions and some people were different.” A hashtag "#UNIQUE AND UNITED" appears at the bottom. On the right, there is a photo of an individual wearing a pink sweatshirt.

Promotional graphic for the CP-Life Research Centre, focused on Cerebral Palsy Lifespan Health & Well-being Research. The background is orange with the CP-Life logo at the top. Text on the left reads “Shared Experience” and “It was a great brainstorming session from everybody involved.” A hashtag "#UNIQUE AND UNITED" appears at the bottom. On the right, there is a photo of an individual with long hair wearing a light cardigan over a dark top.

💚 Today is World Cerebral Palsy Day 💚
This year’s theme, #UniqueandUnited, reminds us that every voice and story adds strength to our community.
Let’s celebrate the resilience and achievements of the CP community.
#WorldCerebralPalsyDay #CPLife #InclusionMatters #CerebralPalsyAwareness #PPI #RCSI

Photograph of 7 people from the Le Chéile conference: Supporting Young People and Families during Transition from Paediatric to Adult Services. Includes Dr Jennifer Fortune who was a speaker at the conference.

Dr Jennifer Fortune presented at the recent “Le Chéile: Supporting young people and families during transition from paediatric to adult services” conference, and spoke about the Ignition Study and our work on co-designing better transition supports for young people with cerebral palsy.

CP-Life flyer for Focus Group Recruitment. Are you interested in shaping collaborative practices to support physical activity for young people with disability? One online 60-75min Group Discussion. CALLING PROFESSIONALS IN DISABILITY AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY SECTORS. Clinicians and Therapy Assistants; Managers and Team Leads; Exercise Professionals. www.cp-lifecentre.ie karenbrady23@rcsi.com cplifecentre@rcsi.com Also displays a QR code for registration. Flyer includes logos of CP-Life Research Centre, Connect2Participate, RCSI, Cerebral Palsy Foundation and SPHeRE Phd Programme.

INVITATION
Connect2Participate —research study focused on collaborative practices to support physical activity for young people with physical disability.
Expression of interest form: forms.office.com/e/MW7CKXjCpa
Email karenbrady23@rcsi.com
#Connect2Participate #FitSkills #PhysicalActivity

A recruitment poster divided into two panels. On the left, bold text at the top says, “We are looking for adults with cerebral palsy to take part in an ONLINE EXERCISE PROGRAMME.” Below, smaller text invites adults aged 18 and over with cerebral palsy, living on the island of Ireland, to join a free 8-week exercise and education programme delivered via Zoom. A website link (https://bit.ly/cpexcelonline) and email (manikandanmanjula@rcsi.com) are provided for more information. Along the bottom are logos for the CP-Life Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, and Research Ireland. On the right, a smiling red-haired woman exercises with a red resistance band in a home setting. Above her are white icons representing walking, a wheelchair, a walker, and a cane. In the lower right corner is the “CP EXCEL Online Exercise Class” logo.

Graphic showing CP EXCEL logo and participant feedback as follows: "The class was a very enjoyable and beneficial experience. It was great to get our muscles moving in a safe and effective way. It was also great to share our experiences with our peers, and the expertise, guidance and support was greatly appreciated." Anonymous. Logo and name of CP-Life Research Centre at the bottom of the graphic.

Graphic showing CP EXCEL logo and participant feedback as follows: "The interaction between tailored made strengthening exercises, relevant research in relation to exercise and CP, nutrition, and our combined lived experiences of living with CP encapsulates this online CP-EXCEL Research Study. We need to take part in order to shift systems and structures that are not working with us..." Fiona Weldon. Logo and name of CP-Life Research Centre displayed at bottom of graphic.

Graphic showing CP EXCEL logo and participant feedback as follows: Taking part in the CP Life exercise programme has been supportive, fun and challenging in the right way. Manjula who runs the classes is lovely. I really enjoy working out in a group where my I/my body feels understood. The evidence-based exercises are chosen specifically for us, so we don't have to figure it all out on our own. The class is helping me maintain strength and feel more confident and in control of my health. The online videos make it easy to keep up between sessions and I've learned what level of exercise is right for adults with CP which helps me stay motivated and consistent. I am looking forward to next week already. Mary-Elaine McCavert. Logo and name of CP-Life Research Centre is displayed at the bottom of the graphic.

Sign up now for our free online exercise class designed for adults with cerebral palsy. Participants are enjoying the sessions and sharing positive feedback. Take this opportunity to get active in a supportive and welcoming community. #cerebralpalsy #exercise #CPEXCEL @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

Graphic from CP-Life Research Centre with the words "WE ARE HIRING" and "RESEARCH ASSISTANT"

💫We’re hiring a Research Assistant to support the development and implementation of Ireland’s National Cerebral Palsy Registry.💫

Information and job spec here 👇
tinyurl.com/7n95u597
Closing Date: 5th September 2025

#researchassistant #jobopportunity
@rcsi.bsky.social @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

CP-Life Research Centre at RCSI, Relate-CP. Infographic showing the prevalence of mental health difficulties and mental disorders among children with cerebral palsy.

Today, on World Brain Day, and every day, we support 'Brain Health for All Ages' #cerebralpalsy #mentalhealth #WorldBrainDay2025
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social

Cardiorespiratory training post stroke: from guidelines to clinical practice. A qualitative study The National Clinical Guideline for Stroke for the United Kingdom and Ireland was published in 2023 with an increased focus and detail regarding cardiorespiratory training. This study aimed to expl...

Check out this recent paper: Ashmore, K., & Malone, A. (2025). Cardiorespiratory training post stroke: from guidelines to clinical practice. A qualitative study. Disability and Rehabilitation, 1–11. doi.org/10.1080/0963...
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social #rehabilitation #disability

Photo of EACD & IAACD Certificate of Award. Nestlé HealthScience. Clinical Research Award - 1st place. "The prevalence of mental health difficulties and mental disorders among children with cerebral palsy" was awarded the Nestlé Health Science Research Award at the EACD/IAACD Heidelberg 2025 congress.

Congratulations Dr Manjula Manikandan and Dr Jennifer Ryan and Relate-CP team on receiving the Clinical Research Award at EACD/IAACD Heidelberg 2025 for their work exploring the prevalence of mental health difficulties and mental disorders among children with cerebral palsy. #cerebralplasy #research

Some key findings from the RELATE-CP survey
• Higher risk of mental health difficulties for females
• Additional risk factors: intellectual disabilities, poor sleep quality, bullying, difficulty making friends, and poor family functioning
Infographic tinyurl.com/Relate-CP @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

Some key findings from the RELATE-CP survey
• 48% reported being bullied at least once in the past year.
• Regular physical activity (4-6 days/week) is linked to a lower risk of mental disorders
See Infographic at: tinyurl.com/Relate-CP
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social #cerebralpalsy #physicalactivity

Some key findings from the RELATE-CP survey
• 29% of children with CP experience high levels of mental health difficulties
• Anxiety disorder is the most common mental health condition among young people with CP
See Infographic at tinyurl.com/2t2m3btj #cerebralpalsy @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

Photos of Aodhan Kelly and Feby Saji, research summer school students at RCSI CP-Life Research Centre.

Welcome to our 2025 @rcsi.bsky.social Research Summer School students Aodhan Kelly (physiotherapy) and Feby Saji (medicine). Working with us for 8 weeks we will support them to develop research skills in scientific writing, presentations, data collections and analysis. #mentor #student #research

Photo taken on steps at the old main entrance to RCSI Dublin. Group from CP-Life Research Centre with visitor Dr Georgia McKenzie.

Delighted to welcome Dr Georgia McKenzie , Centre of Research Excellence: CP-Achieve to @rcsi.bsky.social Georgia is visiting Dublin ahead of attending the EACD/ IAACD Heidelberg. We look forward to future collaboration and learning.
#research #cerebralpalsy #disability #collaborate

Read our latest Newsletter at tinyurl.com/CP-Life-News...
Register for our upcoming ONLINE research seminar at tinyurl.com/CP-LifeResea...
"Evidence to Practice: Benefits, Partnerships and Strategies for Physical Activity" 3pm on Wednesday 4th June. @rcsi.bsky.social @rcsi-physio.bsky.social

Join us online next week, Wed 4th June, for our research seminar, Evidence to Practice: Benefits, Partnerships and Strategies for Physical Activity for People with Disabilities - see below to register. @rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social #disability #cerebralpalsy #physicalactivity

CP-Life Research Centre Move-Connect-Thrive World_Cafe_2025 Bringing the community together to discuss physical activity for people with disability

See video vimeo.com/1084233095
from our Move-Connect-Thrive World Café event on 14 April. Our thanks to all who made the day such a great success. #cerebralpalsy #physicalactivity #sportforall
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social @researchireland.ie @donnacooney1.bsky.social @futureneuro.bsky.social

Colourful infographic created by Robyn Deasy showing the work carried out at CP-Life Research Centre 'Move-Connect-Thrive' World Café on 14th April 2025

We're delighted to share the wonderful infographic
created by Robyn Deasy vimeo.com/1084205747 at our Move-Connect-Thrive World Café event on 14 April 2025 @rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsi.bsky.social @futureneuro.bsky.social #cerebralpalsy #sportforall #physicalactivity #community #participation

Flyer for CP-Life Research Seminar Series showing photos and names of the speakers(Dr Ailish Malone, Dr Manjula Manikandan Dr Karen McConnell and Karen Brady), the date and time of the event (3pm on 4th June), and the title of the event, Evidence to Practice: Benefits, Partnerships and Strategies for Physical Activity for People with Disabilities

Join us ONLINE for our next research seminar, Evidence to Practice: Benefits, Partnerships and Strategies for Physical Activity, at 3pm on Wednesday 4th June. To register, click tinyurl.com/5pmfk29k or scan below.

Group photo of participants at the CP-Life Move-Connect-Thrive event held on 14 April 2025.

Check out our Move-Connect-Thrive: World Café on Physical Activity Participation by Young People with Physical Disability cpresearchireland.eu?page_id=2137 @rcsi-physio.bsky.social @researchireland.bsky.social #cerebralpalsy #SportForAll #PPI #MoveConnectThrive #DisabilityInclusion

Finding your support network In this video, young people talk about supportive friends and the value of in-person and online social and support groups.

Throwback Tuesday: watch young people with cerebral palsy share their experiences of support networks here: vimeo.com/880828988?sh...
#cerebralpalsy #supportnetwork #disability #research #healthcare #community
@rcsi-physio.bsky.social @rcsipophealth.bsky.social

Throwback Tuesday - looking back at our very successful YOUTH EXPERIENCE MATTERS World Café event last year
vimeo.com/935382119?sh...

@cerebralpalsy @disability @rcsi.bsky.social

Transition from School to Adult Life: Scoping Review of Perspectives of Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Families This scoping review spotlights views and experiences of young adults with intellectual disabilities and their families on transition from school to adult life. 3100 potentially-relevant studies wer...

Check out this interesting paper from Dr Shona McGuinness et al.
Transition from School to Adult Life: Scoping Review of Perspectives of Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Families
doi.org/10.1080/0968...
@cerebralpalsy @disability