A LEISURE centre in Bromsgrove is offering free memberships to those living with parkinsons disease..
Bromsgrove Sport and Leisure Centre – managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Bromsgrove District Council – collaborated with charity Parkinson’s UK in 2022 to create the initiative.
They are now urging people to sign up in the wake of World Parkinson’s Day (Thursday, April 11).
Since it started, almost 40 members of the community who are affected by Parkinson’s disease have benefited from the membership.
But, this World Parkinson’s Day, the centre wants to encourage more people than ever before to take advantage of the initiative.
Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and there is currently no cure. It affects around 153,000 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. People living with the condition find various activities, from walking to dancing, beneficial in managing their symptoms.
The free membership offers access to gym, swim and group exercise classes. Plus, a free carer membership is available, if required.
Ben Betteridge, contract manager at Everyone Active, 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.
“Since launching, we are 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.”
Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.
Visit https://www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons/ for more information.
