Free leisure memberships for Parkinson's sufferers

Posted: 11/04/2024

Forum Leisure in Wythenshawe offers free memberships to those living with Parkinson’s disease and is urging people to sign up this World Parkinson’s Day on 11 April 2024.

A collaboration with charity Parkinson’s UK in 2022 created the initiative, which has seen almost 50 residents take up the free memberships so far.

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world with 153,000 sufferers in the UK alone. It has more than 40 symptoms ranging from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.

Being physically active can play an important role in living well with Parkinson’s. People living with the condition find various activities, such as walking or dancing, beneficial in managing their symptoms.

The free membership offers access to gym, swim, and group exercise classes. A free carer membership is available if required.

Everyone Active contract manager Phil Bowers said: “We want to encourage the Parkinson’s community to stay active this World Parkinson’s Day. Exercise is so important for living well with Parkinson’s and can help improve both physical fitness and mental wellbeing.

“We’re really proud to see the positive impact our free memberships have had on those who have joined.

“We urge anyone living with Parkinson’s to sign up for the initiative so they can reap the benefits of physical activity in supporting their condition.”

Further information: https://www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons/.

Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.