£3,000 grants available to support physical activity for people with Parkinson’s

Local activity providers, exercise professionals, and community groups in Tameside are being encouraged to apply for funding of up to £3,000 as part of Parkinson’s UK’s Physical Activity Grants programme, now open for its fifth successive year.

The initiative, launched in 2021, has already delivered nearly £700,000 in funding across the UK, supporting more than 200 projects that help people living with Parkinson’s stay active, many of them free to attend.

From walking football and dance to table tennis and seated yoga, the programme supports a wide variety of accessible activities proven to make a real difference to the lives of those with Parkinson’s.

The latest round of the programme opened in March 2025, and applications will close on Thursday 2nd October 2025. Local groups, physios, coaches and clubs that are connected to the Parkinson’s community are eligible to apply.

Research shows that regular physical activity can significantly help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s, offering benefits such as:

• Better balance and coordination

• Reduced risk of falls and freezing

• Improved strength and cardiovascular health

• Higher energy levels and better sleep

• Lower anxiety and improved mental wellbeing

One previous grant recipient, Yanar Alkayat, runs seated yoga sessions in East London through her initiative Yanar Mind and Movement. She received over £2,000 in 2024 and spoke highly of the programme’s value: "Physical Activity Grant funding from Parkinson's UK has really helped me deliver more free seated yoga classes for people with Parkinson's and other long-term health conditions.

"The funding has truly made a difference. It enabled me to expand my classes to new areas, reaching more people and providing much-needed movement sessions for free. Without this support from Parkinson's UK, these classes simply wouldn't have been possible. I would highly recommend applying."

The classes also welcome carers and family members, creating an inclusive, social space for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Roma Hashim, Physical Activity Grants Manager at Parkinson’s UK, says the organisation is excited to see the programme continue to grow: "Following the success of our physical activity grants in 2024, we are delighted to be offering new funding for Parkinson's professionals, exercise coaches and local gorups.

"We hope to work with even more providers and to create new national partnerships as we help more people enjoy an active lifestyle with the condition."

Parkinson’s UK also offers expert advice, training, and resources to help grant recipients tailor their activities to the needs of participants.

Applications must be submitted by Thursday 2nd October 2025. To learn more or start your application, visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/grants-physical-activity-providers or email: physicalactivity@parkinsons.org.uk

You can also register for a Meet the Funder webinar to hear more about the grant process and ask questions directly: Click here to sign up