Parkinsons GroupFairfield leisure Centre Hosts Exercise class for Parkinson's Patients and Carers - Fairfield Leisure Centre in Dartford offers a weekly exercise class every Wednesday from 2:15 pm to 3:15 pm for people living with Parkinson’s disease and their carers. This week’s session saw enthusiastic participation, highlighting the importance of such initiatives for improving quality of life. The class, costing £3.50 per person, allows participants to stay fit, maintain mobility, and socialise. Due to the summer break and the departure of the current instructor, the class will be on hiatus until September, with a restart date to be confirmed once a new instructor is secured. Set up by the charity Parkinson’s UK, the class has been a community staple for about two years. No prior booking is required, participants can simply turn up and pay on the day. In addition to physical benefits, the class helps attendees form lasting friendships, making the sessions a weekly highlight. With the upcoming break, there’s a push to raise awareness and attract more participants when classes resume. Nicola Mendis, Neuro Physiotherapist said “Exercise is important for everyone to help maintain strength, flexibility, fitness, mood and wellbeing. For people with Parkinson's it is even more important as exercise can help slow or reverse some of the impact of the condition and so can keep you well and away from therapists for longer! Use it and improve it!"

Fairfield Leisure Centre also hosts a monthly coffee morning on the last Friday of every month from 10:30 am to midday. Held in the coffee shop area by the main reception, this event is open to all and provides another great opportunity for socialising and community building. More details can be found at Parkinson's Cafe, Dartford on the Parkinson’s UK website - https://localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/.../parkinsons...

Organisers are keen to raise awareness about these valuable community resources. Increasing participation enhances the experience for everyone and ensures the programs’ sustainability. Janine Starling, Area Development Manager from Parkinson’s UK said, "Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where individuals living with Parkinson’s can stay active and connected. We are delighted with the response so far and look forward to welcoming more participants in September."

For more information, contact Fairfield Leisure Centre or visit the Parkinson’s UK website.

Contact Information

Fairfield Leisure Centre: https://www.placesleisure.org/centres/fairfield-leisure/

Parkinson’s UK: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/