Free memberships for people with Parkinson’s

People living with Parkinson’s across Ashfield are being urged to sign up for free gym memberships.

Lammas Leisure Centre, in Sutton; Kirkby Leisure Centre and Hucknall Leisure Centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with Ashfield District Council, works with the Parkinson’s UK charity to offer the memberships.

Now in its fifth year, it provides access to gym, swim and group exercise, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.

A free membership will also be given to up to three carers to provide additional support if needed.

Everyone Active supports 133 people in Ashfield with Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological condition with no cure. Parkinson’s Awareness Month is taking place throughout April.

Parkinson’s affects around 166,000 people in the UK and there are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

Being physically active can play an important role in living well with Parkinson’s. Those living with the condition can find various activities, such as swimming, walking and dance, beneficial in managing their symptoms.

Nigel Jackson, 69, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2022 and is a member of Lammas Leisure Centre. He struggled with depression following his diagnosis but exercise and the social connections he has built have improved his health and wellbeing.

Nigel said:

“When I started attending seated exercise, I used a walker but now after perseverance and a regular exercise routine, I can now walk unaided into the centre and around my home. I’m in more of an upright position and am finding my diagnosis much easier to manage.

“I have made some great friendships from the seated exercise as the social aspect of getting out the house is also a big factor for me. Now my confidence is growing, I’m progressing into the gym to learn other equipment, too.

“Thank you Everyone Active for all you have done for not only myself but also my wife, as her mental health also dipped after my diagnosis. She also enjoys coming to the gym with me and has found it really beneficial for her own health and wellbeing.”

Cllr Chris Huskinson, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Lead Member for Leisure, Health and Wellbeing, said:

“This partnership makes a real difference to those living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones across Ashfield. We have help on hand to find the right exercises to support those with the condition in managing their symptoms.

“Our leisure centres are open to everyone, no matter what their ability, to support them in leading a healthier and happier life.”

Simon Morgan, Everyone Active’s area contract manager, said:

“We are immensely proud to be partnering with Parkinson’s UK for the fifth year running, and truly believe the membership makes a real difference to the lives of those living with the condition and their carers.

“We want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where the whole Parkinson’s community feel supported as they exercise, and are confident we have an activity for all, no matter what your age, ability or fitness level.”

Tom Ingram, corporate partnerships lead at Parkinson’s UK, said:

“We’re delighted to partner with Everyone Active, who have very generously offered complimentary membership for people living with Parkinson’s and their carers.

“Being physically active is important for everyone. It supports both physical and mental health and depending on what you choose, can provide social support and interaction, all of which can really help people living with Parkinson’s and those providing informal care.

“Developing a regular physical activity habit can make a person feel more in control when living with the condition. Quality of life can be enhanced and independence and confidence maintained. We hope that with the support of Everyone Active, the Parkinson’s community can enjoy physical activity and use it to make a real difference to their lives.”

For further information or to join, visit www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons

Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.

Lammas Leisure Centre is set to host a free community event on Thursday, April 30 (11am-3.30pm), designed to support the physical and mental wellbeing of those living with Parkinson’s.

The day will include a meet and greet, giving users the chance to socialise and share experiences, as well as gym orientation and a bowls session. For more information, phone the centre on 0162 351 1177.

Posted on 23 April 2026