North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has called for improved awareness of Tourette Syndrome to ensure those with the condition receive “the understanding, dignity and support they deserve”.
Speaking in today’s Short Debate in the Senedd on ‘The need for a national plan to improve Tourette syndrome services’, Mr Isherwood said there are a number of myths connected to the condition which need to be dispelled.
He therefore called for action to improve awareness of the disorder.
He said:
“Tourette syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism are distinct neurodevelopmental ‘disorders’ that can co-occur, sharing some overlapping symptoms and characteristics.”
“Tourette syndrome is widely misunderstood, mischaracterised by one of the most persistent myths: that Tourette’s is simply about unintentional bad language. In reality, only a small minority of people with Tourette’s experience coprolalia - involuntary swearing - with estimates placing it at around 10% of those with the condition.
“Most people experience a combination of motor and vocal tics such as blinking, throat-clearing, or repeating sounds.
“In Wales, Tourette’s is far from rare. It affects around 1 in 100 children, yet families continue to face long waits for diagnosis and a lack of consistent specialist support across Health Boards.
“Without proper pathways, many children are left to struggle with anxiety, social isolation, and additional neurodevelopmental conditions.
“By challenging misconceptions and improving awareness, we can ensure that children and adults with Tourette’s in Wales receive the understanding, dignity, and support they deserve.”
