A programme of dance, movement and social inclusion is supporting people in Preston living with Parkinson’s disease.

The Neuro Moves initiative, led by LPM Dance in partnership with UCLan, is based at the Media Factory in Kirkham Street.

Mel Brierley of LMP Dance leads the Connect and Flow sessions, supported by a number of volunteer students from UCLan Dance, while Ruth Spencer from UCLan carefully plans and co-ordinates the programme.

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Parkinson’s is a devastating condition that slowly takes away movement, independence and the ability to live a normal life. People living with Parkinson’s often miss out on exercise and can experience social isolation, which in turn impacts on their mental health.

At the sessions, participants enjoy the social interaction with peer groups as well as the students. This helps to improve their movement and co-ordination, be more confident in managing their daily lives, and above all, have some fun.

Preston Guild Lodge No 4408 – which is the appointed UGLE Universities Scheme Lodge covering UCLan – donated £1,000 to help support the project.

Lodge members Cliff Jones, Noel Colley, David Parker, and Radi Cheosea – who is also a student at
UCLan – delivered the donation to the group and took part in a session.

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The cheque was received by Laurie Exton together with Mel Brierley and student volunteer Robyn Swift.

Helen Gould, Co-Director of LPM Dance, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our work that supports communities in Preston and this support will enable us to continue to deliver this important work that makes a difference to our community’s health and wellbeing.”

To find out more, visit the LPM Dance website.

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