Getting active at the Scottish Parliament

We’re always pushing for better care, more support, new treatments, and one day, a cure. But living with Parkinson’s isn’t just about healthcare.

People also need opportunities to enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits of being active and creative.

We took that message to the Scottish Parliament at a special reception on Wednesday 23 April 2025.

MSPs saw firsthand the impact of activities including boxing, exercise drumming, Parkinson’s physical activity sessions, walking football and table tennis. Some even had a go!

There was also a moving performance from the Forth Valley Parkinson’s Singing Group and Alva Academy Choir.

Members of our community travelled from across Scotland to be with us. Overall, more than 200 people attended the event. More than 20 MSPs came along, including Minister for Public Health, Jenni Minto. And we also welcomed many professionals, researchers, supporters and partners.

Together, we celebrated the power of physical activity to help people live well with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s UK supporter and former Scotland rugby captain, Gavin Hastings, whose wife Diane has lived with Parkinson’s since 2003, said:

“I live with my wife, Diane, who’s had Parkinson’s for over 20 years. I see how she is on a daily basis.

“But it’s great for me to see other people who live with Parkinson’s and the way they’re reacting. We saw the wonderful choir and boxing and other activities.

“For me, it’s all about participation. People with Parkinson’s get an awful lot out of participation and that’s going to be my take away from this evening. How much opportunity there can be for those that are willing to participate.”

James Jopling, Scotland Director at Parkinson’s UK, said:

“It was brilliant to be at the Scottish Parliament to highlight the different ways people get active to live well with their condition.

“While we provide support in different ways, and campaign for better care, there’s a lot more that can make a difference.

“As we showed at the parliament, physical and creative activities can help people manage their condition, but they also allow them to be part of a community of support. We need more of these opportunities.

“To see so many of our MSPs engaging with our community and discovering the benefits of their activities was brilliant.

“I would like to thank Colin Smyth MSP and the team at the parliament for hosting us.

“We look forward to working with MSPs as we continue our drive to be there for every Parkinson’s journey.”