Worster-Drought syndrome

Worster-Dought syndrome (WDS) is a form of cerebral palsy. It is rare and affects approximately 3 in 100,000 children.

WDS affects the muscles around the mouth and throat causing difficulties with swallowing, feeding, talking, dribbling, crying and coughing. All children with WDS understand more language than they are able to speak. Typically, they are unusually quiet babies and develop speech very late.

Many children with WDS have general learning difficulties, including understanding language. Approximately one third of children with WDS have mild learning difficulties and half have behavioural difficulties. Poor concentration skills and hyperactivity are particularly common.

Early intervention is recognised as being crucial for supporting children with WDS, and cerebral palsy. A child with WDS will have special educational needs (SEN). In some cases, SEN additional support may be adequate, whereas in others an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will be necessary.