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South Shields Town Hall will be lit up green next Tuesday (1 March) to mark the start of National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month.

Cerebral palsy is caused by a brain disorder or injury that can occur during pregnancy, during birth, or in the first couple of years of a child's life. It is a lifelong neurodisability that affects each person living with it in a different way. However, with early identification and the correct support across different areas, those with it can live their lives as fully as possible.

Councillor Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "It is important that we raise awareness of this condition and develop more understanding of the condition in our communities.

"By lighting up our beautiful Town Hall we are demonstrating our support for those suffering from cerebral palsy as well as showing our commitment to do all we can to help them access the support available to enhance their lives."

In line with the Council's priority of helping vulnerable communities, Cllr Hetherington has initiated work to support a pledge for Â鶹ÊÓƵ to adopt the Cerebral Palsy Covenant.

If agreed, the covenant, championed by the charity Action Cerebral Palsy, will reflect the commitment of the Council to ending the postcode lottery of services that children, young people and their families living with the condition face. It will also seek to improve education and care support for children and young people living with the condition.