Parkinson’s UK’s Bexleyheath and Dartford branch has issued an urgent appeal for new volunteers. Local residents are encouraged to get in touch if they can spare a few hours each month to ensure the branch can continue to support people affected by Parkinson’s.
The branch’s monthly support meetings provide information, support, friendship, and activities to local people affected by Parkinson’s, their families and carers. They take place on the fourth Thursday of the month in Bexleyheath and on the second Wednesday of the month in Dartford.
Currently the branch urgently needs new Group Helpers to ensure the support meetings can continue. Group Helpers assist with meeting and greeting new members, organise the regular raffles and make the all important tea and coffee. The branch is also in need of a volunteer who can organise and promote the group’s activities through the creation and distribution of a regular newsletter, which is essential for the branch to reach as many local people affected by Parkinson’s as possible and encourage them to come along.
Around 145,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, including approximately 4,290 in Kent.
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.
The Bexley and Dartford Branch meet on the second Wednesday of the month from 7.30 – 9.00pm at the Mick Jagger Centre in Shepherds Lane, Dartford and on the fourth Thursday of the month from 2.30 – 4.00pm at Pincott Hall, behind Christchurch in the Broadway, Bexleyheath.
Karina Prinwathie, Network Support Officer, Parkinson’s UK said: “The Bexley and Dartford branch is a lifeline for people in the local area who are living with Parkinson’s, but unfortunately 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 people who are part of the Bexley and Dartford branch because with your support we really can change lives.”
Visit parkinsons.org.uk for more information about Parkinson’s UK groups, activities, and support in your area.
For further details about volunteering for the Bexley and Dartford Support Group, please contact karina at kprithwani@parkinsons.org.uk, or phone 0344 225 3609 or go to ‘Get Involved’ on the Parkinson’s UK website.