Frequency and nature of sleep disturbances amongst children with cerebral palsy in Northern Ireland: a cross-sectional study

Background:
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are at increased risk of sleep disturbances due to the condition and associated comorbidities. Although prevalence varies across countries and cultures, UK-specific data are limited.

Objectives:
This study aimed to describe the frequency and nature of sleep disturbances in children with CP in Northern Ireland (NI) and to explore associations with child, sociodemographic, or CP-related characteristics.

Methods:
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with parents of children aged 3–18 years with CP. The survey included the validated Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC) and questions on family demographics. Sample characteristics were compared with age-matched children from the NI Cerebral Palsy Register. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and multivariate linear regressions.

Results:
Valid responses were obtained from 111 families, and the sample was broadly representative of the CP population in Northern Ireland. A high prevalence of sleep disturbance was observed: 43 % of children met clinical criteria based on contemporary SDSC norms and 74 % using historical norms. The most frequent types of sleep disorder were Disorders of Initiating and Maintaining Sleep and Sleep–Wake Transition Disorders. No significant associations were found between SDSC scores and child age, sociodemographic, or clinical variables.

Conclusions:
This is the first UK study to quantify the frequency and nature of sleep disturbances in children with CP using the SDSC. Findings indicate the need for health professionals to routinely enquire about sleep and provide targeted support. Further population-based research is required to understand family sleep experiences over time and inform multidisciplinary intervention and policy.