Free gym memberships are being offered by local leisure centres to people living with Parkinson's.

Stratford Leisure Centre, Southam Leisure Centre, Shipston Leisure Centre, Studley Leisure Centre and The Greig Leisure Centre in Alcester, run by award-winning operator Everyone Active in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, offer the initiative co-designed with the charity Parkinson's UK.

Now in its fifth year, the Everyone Active and Parkinson's UK free membership provides access to gym, swim and group exercise classes, 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.

Currently, Everyone Active supports 96 individuals in Stratford-on-Avon District with Parkinson's.  

World Parkinson's Day, which took place on Saturday 11 April 2026, raises awareness of the progressive neurological condition that currently has no cure.  

Parkinson's affects around 145,000 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.

Richard Bell, Everyone Active's 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."

Julie Lewis, Head of Environmental and Neighbourhood Services, said: "This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting residents to live healthier, more active lives, regardless of the challenges they face. By working in partnership with Everyone Active and Parkinson's UK, we are helping to remove barriers to physical activity and ensuring people with Parkinson's and their carers feel welcomed, supported and valued within our leisure centres."  

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.