LEISURE centres across Wellington and Taunton are offering free memberships to people living with Parkinson’s.
Everyone Active, in partnership with Somerset Council, currently run the free membership programme - co-designed with the charity Parkinson’s UK - which is offered by five leisure centres in the area.
These include: Wellington Sports Centre, Wellsprings Leisure Centre, Taunton Swimming Pool, Blackbrook Leisure Centre and Spa, and Vivary Golf and Adventure Centre.
The membership is poised to enter its fourth year on World Parkinson’s Day on Friday, April 11, providing access to gym, swim and group exercise, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.
A free membership can be given to up to three carers to provide additional support, if needed.
Everyone Active currently supports 51 people in Somerset living with Parkinson’s, which is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world for which there is currently no cure.
Parkinson’s affects around 145,000 people in the UK and there are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.
Being physically active can play an important role in living well with Parkinson’s. Those living with the condition can find various activities, such as swimming, walking and dance beneficial in managing their symptoms.
Diana Smith, 79, from Milverton, is living with Parkinson’s and has been attending walking football sessions at the facility for a few months with her husband Richard and has found enthusiasm for the sport.
Diana said: “Walking football was something we’d never thought of. My husband and I do very few things together, but this is one that we could join in and participate in as a couple.
“I would say to anyone, come and see and join in because no matter what your skills are, you will improve. As teams we have a lot of fun together.”
Mark Washington, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said: “We are immensely proud to be partnering with Parkinson’s UK for the fourth year running. We truly believe the membership makes a real difference to 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, 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: “We’re delighted to partner with Everyone Active, who have very generously offered complimentary membership for people living with Parkinson’s and their carers.
“Being physically active is important for everyone. It supports both physical and mental health and depending on what you choose, can provide social support and interaction, all of which can really help people living with Parkinson’s and those providing informal care.
“Developing a regular physical activity habit can make a person feel more in control when living with the condition.
“Quality of life can be enhanced and independence and confidence maintained. 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 everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons