Free gym memberships for people with Parkinson's

Free gym memberships are being offered by a leisure centre to people living with Parkinson's.

Bromsgrove Sport and Leisure Centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with the district council, designed the scheme alongside the charity Parkinson's UK.

The membership provides free access to gym, swim and group exercise for people with the condition, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.

It can also be given to up to three carers to provide additional support, Everyone Active said.

World Parkinson's Day, which took place on Friday, raises awareness of the progressive neurological condition that currently has no cure.

About 153,000 people in the UK are living with the condition, which affects everyone differently with more than 40 symptoms, including tremors, stiffness and anxiety.

An Everyone Active spokesperson said they were currently supporting 37 people in Bromsgrove, in Worcestershire, living with Parkinson's.

Benjamin Betteridge, the firm's contract manager, said they believed the membership "made a real difference" to people and their carers.

"We want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where the whole Parkinson's community feels supported, and are confident we have an activity for all, no matter what your age, ability or fitness level," he said.

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