Strategy

In 2025, the Elsass Foundation adopted a new strategy that will guide the Foundation’s work in the years ahead. Its primary ambition is to ensure the highest possible quality of life for all people with cerebral palsy (CP) throughout their lives.

The Elsass Foundation’s strategy was adopted in September 2025. It sets the direction for the Foundation’s activities across all areas in the years to come, including grants, development, events and partnerships.

The strategy is built on knowledge and experience gained through the Foundation’s previous efforts, while also remaining firmly rooted in the Foundation’s Statutes — the legally binding framework on which the Foundation was established.

The Five Strategic Goals

Based on the ambition and guiding principles, five strategic goals have been developed that the Elsass Foundation will work to achieve across all activities.

Accessible and inclusive communities

People with CP are at greater risk of being excluded from communities connected to education, employment, sports, and leisure activities. Everyone with CP should therefore have the opportunity to participate in meaningful communities throughout life — including opportunities for parents of children with CP.

Safe and coherent life transitions

Life transitions can be particularly challenging for people with CP and their families. The diagnosis often involves complex needs and a requirement for specialised support and services from professionals across different sectors. It is therefore essential that initiatives and support pathways for people with CP are managed and coordinated effectively by the relevant stakeholders, ensuring that life transitions are as smooth as possible. The Foundation will place particular emphasis on early intervention around the time of diagnosis and on the transition into adulthood.

Prevention of complications and decline in functional ability

CP is often diagnosed late, which can delay access to support for both children and their parents. As a result, children with CP may develop complications that could otherwise have been reduced or prevented.

Many people with CP also experience a decline in their functional ability over time. Infants at risk of developing CP should therefore be identified as early as possible. At the same time, preventive initiatives — including physical activity, movement, and other meaningful interventions — should be available to children, adults, and family members alike.

Denmark as a hub for international CP research

CP is a small research field. Strengthening the Danish research environment and expanding international collaboration are therefore essential. A coordinated effort among foundations and research communities across countries should lead to improved clinical interventions and better outcomes for all people with CP.

Broad awareness and use of CP knowledge in Denmark

Professionals often work across many different diagnoses and may not have the opportunity to stay updated on every condition. They may also encounter relatively few people with CP in their daily practice. It is therefore important that knowledge about CP is easily accessible and communicated in multiple formats, enabling people with CP, their families, and professionals alike to apply the latest knowledge and tools in everyday life.