UNIVERSITY SCHEME PROVIDES EXPERT-LED FITNESS CLASSES

A NEW project has been launched to support Parkinson's Disease sufferers in Staffordshire through exercise.

- By MAIL REPORTER

The University of Staffordshire has joined forces with Parkinson's UK to deliver two initiatives.

One focuses on building exercise independence across the county, while the other targets those in Stoke-on-Trent's most deprived communities.

Both aim to improve physical function, build confidence, and promote long-term behavioural change.

The move comes as Parkinson's is on the rise. In the UK, around 166,000 people are already diagnosed with the disease. By 2050, the number of people with Parkinson's worldwide will double to 25 million.

The condition has motor symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and balance difficulties and non-motor symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and cognitive changes.

According to Parkinson's UK, being active for 2.5 hours a week can help manage symptoms, and has a positive impact both physically and mentally.