Parkinson's UK

Parkinson’s UK provide information and support for people who are living with Parkinson's and also people who are caring for someone with the condition. The Parkinson's UK website has lots of detailed information about the condition, and advice to help you feel in control of daily life, from diet, physical activity and exercise, to getting out and about. The website also has a practical to-do list for people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's.

Helpline

Parkinson’s UK have a free, confidential helpline for advice and support. Anyone affected by Parkinson's (including carers) can call 0808 800 0303 to speak to a trained adviser. Advisers can provide information and guidance on medical issues (including symptoms and treatment), employment and benefits, health and social care, emotional support, and general information and advice about living well with Parkinson’s. You can also get support and advice by emailing [email protected].

Local group meet-ups

Meeting other people living with or affected by Parkinson's provides a community of support from people who understand what you're going through. Parkinson's UK run group meetings offering information, friendship and support to local people affected by Parkinson's, their families and carers.

There is a monthly group meeting in St Neots where you can meet others for lunch and a chat. The cafe in Huntingdon is a friendly informal session running monthly. ; these meetings usually have a guest speaker presentation followed by a soup and sandwich lunch. There is also a monthly online meeting for carers of people with Parkinson's. Details of all of these groups, including timings, can be found on the Parkinson's UK website. It is best to contact them before attending as occasionally the venue or timings can change.

Physical activity sessions

Physical activity is shown to have a positive impact on many Parkinson's symptoms - both motor symptoms which impact movement and speech, and non-motor symptoms such as anxiety and sleep issues. There are a range of classes and activities run locally by various professionals who have tailored or adapted their sport to best suit people with Parkinson's. These include walking football sessions, and Nordic walking, PD Challenger and seated exercise classes run by the organisation Active with Parkinson's Cambs. There is an exercise class in Huntingdon, and seated exercise in St Neots, and a wide range of activities available across Cambridgeshire.  You can search for local support and activities using your town or postcode using the search bar on the Parkinson's UK website. Alternatively you can contact the local advisers for one-to-one support or signposting to your local activities - email [email protected].

The helpline and adviser service is free at all times. Local group meetings are often free to attend, but welcome contributions towards refreshments and room hire.

Physical activity sessions may offer free trial sessions but thereafter would usually incur a small fee. Many are subsidised to keep costs to a minimum for attendees.

In the video below people from the Parkinson's community share their thoughts and experiences on building a network of support and living well. Note that groups vary from area to area.