What is Edinburgh Parkinsons?

Edinburgh Parkinsons is a local community organisation for people living with Parkinson's, along with their families, friends and care-partners, across Edinburgh and the Lothians. It describes itself as offering a warm and friendly local community, weekly classes and events, meaningful support and advice, and a positive focus on wellbeing. If you are affected by Parkinson's in that area and want local connection rather than only national information, this is the type of group to look at.

Who it is for

The organisation states it is made up of people living with Parkinson's, their families, friends and care-partners across Edinburgh and the Lothians. That means it is not limited to people with a diagnosis — the people around them are explicitly included.

Member comments quoted on the site describe it as a source of information, mutual support, talks, and a varied programme of groups and classes. One member, Norma, mentions "interesting talks accompanied by tea, coffee and biscuits"; another, Anne, refers to "an incredible number of activities for all tastes and abilities."

What it offers

Based on the site's own description and member quotes, the main offerings are:

• A local community — meeting up and sharing experiences with others in a similar situation.
• Weekly classes and events — described as a large and varied programme.
• Support and advice — including peer support, with members noting "there's always a listening ear."
• A wellbeing focus — activities framed around keeping healthy "in body and spirit."

The site also carries news items, such as a course for carers, friends, family or work colleagues of someone with a Parkinson's diagnosis, and an annual Edinburgh Parkinson's Lecture.

National support and advice

The site points to Parkinson's UK for national help:

• Parkinson's UK Helpline: 0808 800 0303, described as a free and confidential service for anyone affected by Parkinson's.
• Email: [email protected] — the site states emails are answered within 5 working days.
• Text relay: 18001 0808 800 0303 (for textphone users).

So the local branch and the national charity serve different purposes: the branch for local activities and community, Parkinson's UK for a national helpline and information.

Research interest

The site notes an Edinburgh Research Interest Group (ERIG) that meets, for those who want to follow or get involved in Parkinson's research locally.

Donations

The branch welcomes online donations to support its work. It notes that UK taxpayers can increase the value of a donation by completing a Gift Aid form, downloadable as a PDF, and that donations can be made via Just Giving. No specific amounts or costs are stated on the page.

How to get involved

The site's own call to action is simply "Join" and "About us." If you are in Edinburgh or the Lothians and affected by Parkinson's, the practical next step is to visit edinburghparkinsons.org and use the join or about links to make contact, or to check the latest news for upcoming courses and events.