North Antrim MLA to meet Parkinson’s community in Ballymena

Ulster Unionist Party Leader, North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows

People living with Parkinson’s in Ballymena are being invited to speak directly to their local MLA about the pressures they are facing — particularly around delayed healthcare appointments, treatments and medications.

On Friday 20 March, Jon Burrows, MLA for North Antrim and leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, will meet members of the Parkinson’s community at Ballymena North Business Centre from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. The event is designed to give those affected a direct line to an elected representative at a time when concerns about access to care are mounting.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Parkinson’s UK Northern Ireland Campaigns and Policy Officer Nikita Ferguson said the charity has been hearing worrying feedback from across the community.

“Parkinson’s UK Northern Ireland has heard from the community about the difficulties people are facing in accessing healthcare appointments, treatments and medications and how delays to care have been impacting on their day to day lives.

“This is an opportunity to speak directly to an elected representative about the challenges you are facing.

“Attendees will get the chance to share their experiences of living with Parkinson’s and pose questions to Jon Burrows MLA about how he can support people living with Parkinson’s in North Antrim.”

The event is open to people living with Parkinson’s as well as those caring for someone with the condition. Organisers say advance registration is required. Those wishing to attend can email nferguson@parkinsons.org.uk or register online at https://prksn.uk/4s2AGtI.

The meeting also highlights the ongoing work of the local Parkinson’s support network. The Ballymena Branch support group meets on the third Friday of each month at Ballymena North Business Centre, 120 Cushendall Road, from 3pm to 4.30pm, and welcomes anyone affected by Parkinson’s.

The Branch is currently seeking new volunteers to assist with a range of roles. Anyone with time to spare and an interest in supporting the local community can contact Jimmy for further information via email at jimmy.mcclean@outlook.com or by phone on 028 2564 8398 or 07826 336698.

For many families navigating Parkinson’s, the opportunity to be heard — and to ask direct questions about political support — may prove as important as the answers that follow.