Parkinson’s UK and Walking Football Scotland are teaming up to grow the offer of Parkinson’s walking football sessions in Scotland.

Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, with almost 13,000 people living with the condition in Scotland. Parkinson’s UK estimates that, within five years, that number will have increased to around 15,000.

Our agreement with Parkinson’s UK sets out how we will collaborate and share resources with a view to increasing access to walking football opportunities for people with Parkinson’s.

Last year saw the Celtic FC Foundation, Glasgow Life and Parkinson’s UK launch a programme of regular sessions in Glasgow and you can get a taste of their programme here - https://youtu.be/R_S3prYWDa4?si=h2ClkddXHfxeidIq

We now hope to facilitate similar offerings in other areas, providing physical activity opportunities to the growing number of people living with Parkinson’s.

Looking for a session near you?

  • Aberdeen in partnership with Sport Aberdeen (contact - kieran.hamill@afccommunitytrust.org)

  • Glasgow Life in partnership with Celtic FC Foundation (contact - Matt.Ramsay@glasgowlife.org.uk)

  • Pars Foundation & Raith Rovers (contact - stewart@parsfoundation.co.uk or jj.henderson@raithrovers.net)

 

Drew Wilson

WFS Parkinson’s Educator

Drew was appointed WFS Parkinson’s Educator in March 2024 after a new partnership with Parkinson’s UK to grow the game in Scotland.

Drew has a wealth of experience working with people with Parkinson’s both on and off the pitch and this role sees him train others wither it’s coaches, players or anyone generally interested to support Walking Football sessions for people living with Parkinson’s across the country.

Lois Rosenthal

Our partnership with Parkinson’s UK sees us work with Parkinson’s Specialist Physio, Lois Rosenthal.

Lois supports WFS Parkinson’s training delivery as well as being on hand to support clubs across the country with any advice to benefit players with Parkinson’s.

Lois is no stranger to walking football and has been involved with the Glasgow Life programme for the last number of years, signposting clients and fully understands the many benefits walking football brings and impact it can have on someone’s life.