Our two leisure centres are offering free membership to people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Hart Leisure Centre and Frogmore Leisure Centre, run by Everyone Active on behalf of the Council, have worked with charity Parkinson’s UK to provide access to gym, swim and group exercise classes, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.
A complimentary membership will also be given to up to three carers to provide additional support if needed. Currently, Everyone Active supports 29 individuals with Parkinson’s in Hart.
Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and there is currently no cure. It affects around 145,000 people in the UK and there are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety. Those with the condition can find various activities, such as swimming, walking and dance, beneficial in managing their symptoms.
Karen Cottrell was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2022 at the age of 48 and has been using the membership at her local Everyone Active centre for a little over a year. She says:
“Having a diagnosis for Parkinson’s at such a young age can add not just a physical, but also a mental challenge to your life. Having access to a membership so that I can attend exercise classes and the gym not only helps with my socialisation, but also my physical and mental wellbeing.
“Keeping mobile is important when you have Parkinson’s and knowing that I can access leisure facilities for free without worrying about the financial burden is fantastic – it really feels like someone is fighting in my corner and giving me the support that I need.”
Kevin Wallace, Everyone Active’s contract manager for Hart, said: “We are immensely proud to be partnering with Parkinson’s UK for the third year running, and truly believe the membership makes a real difference to the lives of those living with the condition and their carers.
“We want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where the whole Parkinson’s community feel supported as they exercise, and are confident we have an activity for all, no matter what your age, ability or fitness level.”
Tom Ingram, corporate partnerships manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Developing a regular physical activity habit can make a person feel more in control when living with the condition.. We hope that with the support of Everyone Active, the Parkinson’s community can enjoy physical activity and use it to make a real difference to their lives.”
For further information or to join, visit: 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.