Shining light on Active with Parkinson’s Cambs

Active with Parkinson’s Cambs (AWPC) was established four years ago in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its creation was a direct response to a membership survey conducted by the Cambridge branch of Parkinson’s UK. Deb Liddington founded the organisation to address the challenges identified in the survey and as a tribute to her father, Graham Liddington, who fought Parkinson’s Disease with great bravery and the support of Paul Goddard (award-winning Neurological Rehabilitation Therapist).

The Founding of AWPC

The two primary needs identified by the community were a return to face-to-face meetings and dedicated exercise provision. Motivated by the loss of her father to Parkinson’s in 2020, the founder took up this challenge as a lasting legacy to him. Having previously accompanied her father to Paul Goddard’s classes, she had first-hand knowledge of his expertise in delivering a unique neurospecificity exercise programme.

At the time, Paul only had availability for one session per week. However, with the vital support of the John Huntingdon’s Charity in Sawston, the initiative officially launched in January 2022. That first day, eight individuals living with Parkinson’s bravely walked through the doors of St Mary’s Community Hall.

It quickly became clear that a formal structure was necessary to secure the grants required for long-term sustainability. Consequently, AWPC (Active with Parkinson’s Cambs) was officially established as a voluntary organisation in February 2022. Growth followed rapidly; by August, the offering expanded to include a second weekly class focused on Nordic Walking specifically tailored for the Parkinson’s community.

Growth and Mission

As awareness of the critical link between exercise and Parkinson’s disease (PD) has spread, AWPC has continued to expand. To meet increasing demand, the organisation has transitioned to larger venues and now provides eight classes per week across three locations: Shelford Rugby Club, Jubilee Pavilion in Stapleford, and Newport Village Hall near Saffron Walden.

The founder takes great pride in the fact that AWPC now serves a membership of 130 people, offering specialised programming tailored to every stage of the condition.

Addressing the Challenge

Parkinson’s is currently the world’s fastest-growing neurological condition. It is a degenerative illness for which there is presently no cure. In response, AWPC aims to empower individuals to live their best lives through:

• Clinical Support: A superb exercise programme designed to help suppress symptoms and potentially slow the condition’s progression.

• Community: Providing essential help, advice, and a sense of camaraderie.

• Spirit: Ensuring that, alongside the physical work, members find enjoyment and fun.