Elgin Parkinson's group to restart following lockdowns

THE Elgin group of Parkinson's UK Scotland will meet this month for the first time since the Covid-19 lockdowns began.

A number of local Parkinson’s groups have restarted activities and in-person meetings following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

The pandemic months have been extremely difficult for many sufferers and their partners, family and friends, the charity said, adding that many had faced deteriorating symptoms from the incurable brain condition.

The Elgin group will meet again for the first time in 18 months at Elgin Free Church, on South Street, on Monday, September 13.

Gatherings will then be held on the second Monday of each month.

Prior to the pandemic, local support groups were a way for people with Parkinson’s to connect with one another and keep active.

Tanith Muller, acting director of Parkinson's UK Scotland, said: "It is fantastic to see our community once again interacting with one another on an in-person basis.

"There are around 12,400 people in Scotland with Parkinson's, and we know that the opportunity to meet other people who really understand Parkinson's is a lifeline that many people have really missed during the pandemic.

"The past year has taken a particularly heavy toll on many people with Parkinson's, as well as their partners, families and friends, and it's brilliant to be able to start welcoming people back to in-person events and activities when they are ready. From old hands to new faces, we want everyone with Parkinson's to feel included.

"We do recognise that not everyone will feel comfortable attending in-person activities yet. We continue to offer a range of virtual activities online. For more information, or to contact our free and confidential adviser service, please call us on 0808 800 0303."

For more information on the Elgin group, email elginanddistrictpsg@gmail.com.

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