Our history

Discover the history of our charity and read more about our founder parents

Founder parents

In the mid 1980s, Paul and Yvonne Lubas and Glenys and Bob Evans, parents of children with cerebral palsy, were regularly travelling the 300 mile round trip to the Bobath Centre in London. A few years later, in 1989, frustrated by the distance they had to travel for specialist treatment, the couples made a pledge together to open a specialist centre in Wales and launched a fundraising campaign.

They were then joined by other parents from across South Wales and formed a core group who we refer to as our founder parents. These are Chris and Jane Loyn, John and Liz Weaver, Anne Shercliffe, Greg and Wendy Frost, Peter and Jan Bates, Ian and Kerry Massey, Richard and Hazel Nicholson and Hefin and Helen Owen. Cerebral Palsy Cymru would like to thank all the founding parents and those who later joined sub-committees for their commitment, dedication, fundraising, and hard work that led to the centre opening in June 1992.

After considerable fundraising efforts, the vision that the founding parents first had, became a reality with the opening of Bobath Cymru in 1992. The charity started with just four therapists and in its first year was able to treat 45 children.

Although now retired, Glenys is still very involved in the centre, if you would like any help or information please refer to our Family Support Service

Glenys paid for the first rent on the building with £30 of her own money, before any of the fundraising started.  If you would like to continue the legacy of that very first gift of £30 please read more about our 1992 club.

How we have helped in Wales

59

Family support appointments took place in 2024-25

300

Children from across Wales have been treated during 2024-25

1077

The number of sessions of specialist therapy we delivered in 2024-25

Renley's story

As a family, we have found Cerebral Palsy Cymru so helpful. The sessions have been very educational, and the emotional support we have received has also been truly amazing. 

- Told by Mum, Alys

View our testimonials

Harlow's Story

The early intervention service has given us clear guidance and practical activities to support Harlow at home. Their help has made a big difference in understanding her needs and in accessing further services. Harlow’s therapy sessions have truly been life-changing for her and for us as a family.

- Family story

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Rosie's Story

Even waiting in reception, we could see other families who were in similar situations, and we felt a sort of sense of belonging. We just felt less alone.

- Family story

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Ella's Story

The support and guidance we have received from the team at Cerebral Palsy Cymru has been excellent. Ella is currently on track with her milestones and Ella’s development is a great example of what early intervention can do.

- Family story

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Hopcyn's story

Better Start, Better Future has given us an inclusive, understanding, supportive community, a safe place free from judgement, surrounded by families who truly understand.

- Family Story

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