Gloucestershire Parkinson's support group facing closure after 15 years
Parkinson’s UK’s Tewkesbury, a support group which has been running for 15 years, has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers as the group faces closure. The group has been able to continue for so long with help from residents in the nearby community as there are many in the Tewkesbury area living with the disease.
As the group is at threat of closure, and people from the area are being encouraged to come forward and volunteer a few hours a month to keep the group going, to support people affected by Parkinson’s. The group could be forced to shut as the current lead volunteer has to step down.
The group meets on the first Thursday of each month between 11am to 12.30pm at the Wheatpieces Community Centre, Columbine Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 7SP. The group is looking for a Branch Committee Volunteer to keep the group operating, and is a flexible role with a big impact.
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Parkinson’s is what happens when the brain cells that make dopamine start to die. There are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety. Some are treatable, but the drugs can have serious side effects. It gets worse over time and there’s no cure. Yet. Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. Around 153,000 people in the UK have Parkinson’s.
Local Volunteer Officer for South West at Parkinson’s UK, Hannah Spawls said: “Activities provided by local groups are a lifeline for people in the local area who are living with Parkinson’s, but unless new volunteers step forward people could be left without the support they need.
“If you can spare a few hours a month we’d love to welcome you to volunteer alongside the amazing people who are part of the group - because with your support we really can change lives. As well as making a big difference to people living with Parkinson’s in your local community, volunteering is a great opportunity to try something new, have new experiences, and meet new people. Join us today.”
As Branch Volunteer for Tewkesbury group, the volunteer will ensure people with Parkinson’s who live locally can access activities that make a real difference to them. This role is responsible for setting up the room for monthly meetings, ensuring refreshments are ready, and welcoming the group members. Between meetings, the volunteer will help find speakers and activities to do at the monthly meeting.
As the Tewkesbury group is supported by Parkinson's UK’s Cheltenham branch, the volunteer will be part of the Cheltenham branch committee, and have help and support as needed from the branch volunteers alongside Parkinson's UK staff. The group would also love to welcome new members who have a connection to the condition.
Around 153,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s including 4,062 people in Gloucestershire.
Parkinson's UK is the UK's leading charity supporting those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's through pioneering research, information, support and campaigning. Visit parkinsons.org.uk for more information about Parkinson’s UK support groups.
For more information or to discuss please contact Hannah Spawls, Local Volunteer Officer via email at hspawls@parkinsons.org.uk, call her on 0344 2253 778 or visit here.