Two mums who are well aware of how isolating and difficult it can be bringing up a severely disabled child are keen to set up a Cockermouth support group to help other people living with cerebral palsy.

Julia Hodgkins lives in Loweswater.

She has three children, including Emé-Elle, who is six and has quadraplegic cerebral palsy.

"She cannot walk, although she is learning to crawl. I have to dress, wash and feed her. We communicate by Makaton sign language and she makes her own signs up. She is very patient and expressive and learned to read before going to school," said Julia.

Rachael Davies has four children. Her youngest daughter, Saskia, 17, has highly complex health issues including polymicrogyria, Worcester Drought Syndrome, epilepsy, cerebral palsy and a chromosomal disorder which causes autism, ADHD and learning difficulties. 

"She signs and communicates her needs and wants using an iPad although she can get very frustrated at times," said Rachael, who had been living in Derwent Mills, Cockermouth, but was flooded out in December and is still living in temporary accommodation in Seaton while her flat is renovated.

There are various groups and agencies in the area which both women have been involved in but they feel there is a real need for a weekly drop-in.

"It could be for people who have cerebral palsy, or for parents and carers. Everyone is welcome. We want to share tips and techniques, empower and inspire," said Rachael.

"People can do this on Facebook but you cannot beat one to one contact.

"It's so important to communicate. When you have a disabled child you are so caught up in caring for them it can be difficult to do anything else.

"We want to reach parents that have ended up with mental health issues. We know how easy it is to get depressed and have a breakdown."

Julia said: "You can feel very isolated. Other mums can get together for a chat but it's not the same when you have a child with special needs.

"When I do get the chance to talk to other parents I'm always learning something new, there's always an exchange of information. We want to put people in touch with each other.

"There's never really been anything locally in terms of cerebral palsy support in the area. As children get older it can get harder as people are less accepting. 

"It's important to bring people together."

A support group drop in will be held every Thursday, starting May 12, from 9.30am to 11.30am in Wild Zucchinis, on Station Street.

They are hoping to organise talks or days out for children or parents. Both their daughters enjoy being with other youngsters but this can be difficult to arrange.