A collaboration between Parkinson’s UK and the Walking Football Association (WFA) has brought walking football to even more people living with Parkinson’s across Wiltshire and the rest of England, thanks to a £10,000 grant.
This funding has allowed local football clubs and community foundations to offer inclusive walking football sessions, aiming to help those with long-term health conditions live a more active and social lifestyle.
Since the partnership’s launch in 2023, the programme has expanded rapidly. Twelve clubs have started hosting walking football sessions, with more than 100 participants now regularly involved. These sessions offer an accessible way for people with Parkinson’s to stay fit, build confidence, and enjoy a social atmosphere without the need for specialist equipment or prior football experience.
The initiative’s focus on improving physical activity for those with Parkinson’s is proving a success, as walking football, which began in 2011, continues to rise in popularity. The WFA is now working with coaches and football clubs to provide further training, enabling even more communities to host walking football sessions for those with long-term health conditions.
Among the clubs and groups benefiting from the funding are Swindon’s very own Movers and Shakers and numerous others across the country, including Wigan, Arsenal in the Community, and Sunderland’s Foundation of Light. The expansion of these sessions reflects a growing awareness of how exercise can enhance quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s, promoting both physical and social well-being.
Stuart Langworthy, Director at the Walking Football Association, spoke of the rewards that came with the project’s success: “It’s been incredibly fulfilling to meet people who wanted to share the benefits of walking football with their local communities, especially after the pandemic. This project has made it easier for people with Parkinson’s to enjoy a fun, friendly, and safe way to stay active.”
Anna Castiaux, Physical Activity Programme Lead at Parkinson’s UK, shared her enthusiasm: “Walking football has become a fantastic activity for people living with Parkinson’s. It helps them maintain an active lifestyle, which is vital for their well-being. It’s exciting to see the impact this initiative is having, and we look forward to seeing it grow.”
