Funding boost to support Parkinson’s community

Table Tennis England is launching a grant funding initiative to support clubs and community groups to deliver table tennis sessions for people living with Parkinson’s.

Thanks to funding via Parkinson’s UK, clubs and community groups will soon be able to apply to Table Tennis England for small grants (between £250 – £500) to encourage people living with the condition into the sport. A total of £5,000 is available.

Growing research shows that regular physical activity can help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s, and there are particular benefits associated with participating in table tennis.

The very nature of table tennis allows for fully inclusive participation – a view shared by Parkinson’s UK, who are on a mission to change attitudes and improve the quality of life for people affected by the condition.

The fund will be launched at a webinar for community clubs and groups on Wednesday February 8th (7pm) which will expand on the principles above, outline funding criteria and timelines for applying.

Applications will be open from February 9th, and an application link will be provided during the webinar.

Aligning with our Level the Table strategy, this initiative will help clubs and other venues to be more inclusive for people with Parkinson’s and to help club coaches and volunteers feel confident to support this inclusion.

Colin Eley, Partnerships Manager at Table Tennis England said: “We’re so grateful to have obtained funding from Parkinson’s UK. Distributing this to clubs and groups hosting table tennis sessions further demonstrates our commitment to grow and retain participation amongst those living with a disability and/or long-term health condition.”

Anna Castiaux, Physical Activity Project Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “It’s so important that we develop opportunities for people with Parkinson’s to be active in a way that is both fun and suitable for them. By working with partners like Table Tennis England we hope to grow the availability of those table tennis sessions as well as develop an awareness within the Parkinson’s community of the opportunities available.”

Click here to read more on our journey to support people with Parkinson’s. For information, advice and support about Parkinson’s, visit the Parkinson’s UK website or call the free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.

Funding boost to support Parkinson’s community Table Tennis England.