Free Parkinson’s Memberships Offered at Local Leisure Centres

All of the leisure centres run by Everyone Active in the borough of Ealing are currently offering free membership to people who are living with Parkinson’s.

The offer includes Everyone Active Acton Centre, Brent Valley Golf Course and Fitness Centre, Dormers Wells Leisure Centre, Reynolds Sports Centre, Elthorne Sports Centre, Greenford Sports Centre, Northolt Leisure Centre, Swift Road Outdoor Sports Centre and Twyford Sports Centre, run by award-winning operator Everyone Active in partnership with Ealing Council offer the initiative co-designed with the charity Parkinson’s UK.

Now in its third year, the Everyone Active and Parkinson’s UK free membership provides access to gym, swim and group exercise classes, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.

A free membership will also be given to up to three carers to provide additional support if needed.

Currently, Everyone Active are supporting 46 individuals in Ealing borough with Parkinson’s, a number which has grown 39 per cent in recent years, mirroring the global trend of the condition’s escalation.

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. 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.

Karen Cottrell was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2022 at the age of 48 and has been utilising 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.”

Phil Edwards, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said, “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.”

Councillor Polly Knewstub, cabinet member for thriving communities, said, “I am delighted that our sport centre partner, Everyone Active, is continuing with this excellent scheme for residents living with Parkinson’s. We know that regular exercise and physical activity helps people with Parkinson’s manage the symptoms of the condition. If you know any residents living with Parkinson’s please spread the word.”

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.