Ballymena Parkinson’s group urges local people not to face condition alone

The Ballymena Branch of Parkinson's UK enjoyed a Movement to Music session as part of World Parkinson's Day.

People across Ballymena living with Parkinson’s — along with their families and carers — are being encouraged to reach out for support through a long-running local group that has spent nearly two decades helping residents navigate one of the world’s fastest-growing neurological conditions.

Parkinson’s UK’s Ballymena and District Branch says nobody affected by the condition should feel isolated, as it continues to expand its programme of social activities, exercise sessions, advice and peer support in the local area.

The branch, which has been operating for almost 20 years, hosts regular monthly meetings for people with Parkinson’s as well as friends, relatives and carers, offering a place where people can share experiences, access information and build friendships with others facing similar challenges.

The appeal comes as awareness of Parkinson’s continues to grow globally, with someone in the UK diagnosed with the condition every 20 minutes.

Support beyond diagnosis

Chair of the Parkinson's UK Ballymena Branch Jimmy McClean pictured with Movement to Music facilitator Charmaine McMeekin at their World Parkinson's Day celebrations.

Organisers say the Ballymena group exists not only to provide practical support, but also to help people maintain confidence, independence and social connection after diagnosis.

The local support meetings are held at Ballymena North Business Centre on Cushendall Road on the third Friday of every month from 3pm to 4.30pm.

Anyone affected by Parkinson’s is welcome to attend, whether they are living with the condition themselves or supporting a loved one.

The group is led by chairman Jimmy McClean alongside local volunteers, with attendees encouraged to bring along friends or family members.

The Ballymena Branch of Parkinson's UK also enjoyed a Bat 'n' Chat session as part of their World Parkinson's Day celebrations.

Alongside monthly meetings featuring guest speakers and activities, the branch also organises regular social events throughout the year, including Christmas lunches and summer outings.

There are also weekly Bat ‘n’ Chat table tennis sessions every Monday, giving members another opportunity to stay active and socially connected.

Movement sessions helping confidence and wellbeing

Last month, members marked World Parkinson’s Day with a Movement to Music session led by facilitator Charmaine McMeekin.

The sessions are designed to support balance, flexibility and energy levels, while also helping reduce stress and anxiety — symptoms many people with Parkinson’s experience alongside physical changes.

Participants were able to take part at their own pace, with organisers describing the event as uplifting and hugely enjoyable for everyone involved.

The movement sessions are now among the regular activities offered throughout the year as the branch continues to focus on both physical wellbeing and emotional support.

Condition affects millions worldwide

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition affecting the brain and currently has no cure.

The illness causes more than 40 symptoms, including tremor, pain, stiffness, anxiety and sleep problems, with symptoms often worsening over time.

Parkinson’s UK says the number of people living with the condition worldwide is expected to double to 25 million by 2050.

Morag Chambers, Local Volunteer Officer at Parkinson’s UK, said getting the right support early can make a major difference for both patients and families.

She said:

“Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s can be a shock and adapting to life with the condition can be hard for the person involved and their loved ones too. But we know that getting the right information and support at the right time can make all the difference.

“That’s why our local groups and networks have an important part to play for people in the region. It is vital that we can support everyone affected by Parkinson’s, so that together, we can move towards everyone with the condition feeling empowered to take back control of their life with Parkinson’s.”

How to get support in Ballymena

Anyone seeking more information about the Ballymena and District Branch can contact chairman Jimmy McClean directly by email at jimmy.mcclean@outlook.com or by phone on 028 2564 8398 or 07826 336698.

Further information about Parkinson’s UK and local support services is available at https://www.parkinsons.org.uk.

The charity also operates a free confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303 for anyone needing advice or support related to Parkinson’s.

For many local families, the Ballymena group continues to provide something increasingly important — a reminder that living with Parkinson’s does not have to mean facing it alone.