Connect and Conquer – Helping People Live Well with Parkinson’s in Cornwall

We recently attended Connect and Conquer at Bodmin Leisure Centre, a health, community and charity partnership programme by Active Cornwall bringing together organisations dedicated to helping people live well with Parkinson’s through exercise, activity and social connections.

A big thank you to Sophie Hulbert and Rob Harrison for organising such an informative and enjoyable event.

One of the most encouraging things about the day was discovering just how much support is available across Cornwall. From physiotherapy and adapted cycling to dancing, boxing, social groups and practical advice, there are some wonderful organisations helping people stay active, maintain their confidence and enjoy life.

We also came away with lots of useful information to add to our Living Well in Mid Cornwall guide, which helps older people and their families discover activities, services and support in their local communities.

For their guide Active Cornwall Activity Trained Providers

The Merlin Centre – Specialist Support for Neurological Conditions

We met Sophie and Tony from The Merlin Centre, who explained the centre’s work supporting people living with neurological conditions.

The centre offers specialist physiotherapy, both on land and through hydrotherapy, alongside oxygen therapy.

These services can help people work towards maintaining mobility, strength and independence.

It was fascinating to hear about the different therapies available and the important role the centre plays in supporting people across Cornwall.

Parkinson’s Cornwall – Advice, Friendship and Support

Pepe from Parkinson’s Cornwall spoke about the support available to people living with Parkinson’s and their families.

An estimated 1,990 people in Cornwall live with Parkinson’s, making access to local advice, activities and friendship particularly important.

Parkinson’s Cornwall helps people connect through support cafés and provides information and advice through its helplines.

These services can make a real difference, particularly for someone who has recently received a diagnosis or is feeling isolated.

Local Parkinson’s Support Groups in Bodmin and St Austell

Emma Edwards also spoke about the Parkinson’s support group in Bodmin, which provides a welcoming opportunity for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers to meet others, share experiences and enjoy some company.

Bodmin Parkinson’s Support Group

• When: Second Friday of every month, 1.30pm–3.30pm
• Where: Shire Hall Suite, Bodmin, PL31 2DQ

Closer to St Austell, there is also a regular Parkinson’s support group.

St Austell Parkinson’s Support Group – supported by St Austell Rotary

• When: Second Wednesday of every month, 10.30am–1.30pm
• Where: Bethel Chapel, St Austell

These local groups are a wonderful way to meet people who understand the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, exchange advice and build friendships.

Sometimes simply having somewhere to go for a cup of tea and a friendly conversation can make a real difference.

iCare iMove – Building Confidence and Preventing Falls

Nikki from iCare iMove introduced their 25-week falls prevention programme, designed to help people improve their balance, strength and confidence.

Sessions last just one hour a week and can be accessed in several ways:

• In person through group sessions
• Online through Zoom
• At local digital hubs (Zoom + social contact, tea and cake!)

Having different ways to participate makes the programme more accessible, particularly for people who find travelling difficult.

Falls prevention is particularly important for older people and those living with Parkinson’s, helping them remain confident and independent in everyday life.

Inner Ground Dance Company – Movement Is Medicine!

Caroline from Inner Ground Dance Company shared a wonderful message:

“Movement is medicine.”

Their monthly dance group brings people together to enjoy movement, music and companionship.

And it isn’t just about dancing. There’s also time for tea, conversation and making friends!

We particularly liked this combination of physical activity and social connection. Enjoying yourself and meeting people can be just as important as the exercise itself.

The Filo Project – Small Groups and Meaningful Friendships

Katy from The Filo Project  explained their approach to supporting people living with mild to moderate dementia and Parkinson’s.

The Filo Project brings together small groups of around four people in a host’s home, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment.

The host provides transport, a two-course lunch and enjoyable activities throughout the day.

The small group setting helps people build friendships, enjoy conversation and feel comfortable.

The organisation also offers a Filo Family Service, providing advice and assistance to family carers, recognising how important their wellbeing is too.

Age UK – Help Finding the Right Support

Vikki from Age UK explained how six other charities their Gateway service helps adults aged 18 and over access advice, information and local support.

The service is available every day of the year, from 8am to 8pm. 01872 266383

As well as helping people find suitable services, the team can provide guidance on benefits and other practical matters.

Knowing where to turn for advice can be difficult, so having a service that helps people navigate the options is extremely valuable.

PSPA – Supporting People with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Florence introduced us to PSPA, the charity supporting people affected by Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare neurological condition, and related conditions.

The charity provides information, advice and support to people living with these conditions, as well as their families and carers.

It was another reminder of the importance of specialist charities in helping people understand a diagnosis and find appropriate support.

Parky Blinders – Boxing with a Difference!

Richard from Parky Blinders explained how their non-contact boxing groups help people living with Parkinson’s enjoy exercise in a fun and sociable environment.

Boxing-inspired exercises can help participants work on movement, coordination, balance and confidence, without any physical contact.

Just as importantly, the sessions offer laughter, friendship and the opportunity to try something different.

A great example of how exercise doesn’t have to feel like exercise!

Cornwall Bicycle Project – Cycling for Everyone

Laura from Cornwall Bicycle Project told us about the adapted cycles available at Par Track.

The project helps people who might otherwise struggle to cycle enjoy the freedom and pleasure of getting out on a bike.

With adapted bicycles to suit different needs, the sessions make cycling more accessible.

Sessions take place every Wednesday, from 9am to 3pm.

What a lovely opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, exercise and company in a supportive environment.

Helping People Live Well in Mid Cornwall

At Home Instead Mid Cornwall, we believe that living well is about much more than receiving care at home.

It’s about maintaining independence, staying physically and mentally active, enjoying friendships and continuing to do the things that make life worthwhile.

Our Care Professionals support people living with Parkinson’s and other conditions in their own homes, but we also recognise how important the wider community is.

Sometimes the most valuable thing we can do is help someone discover a local group, encourage them to try an activity or support them to continue enjoying something they love.

That’s why we’re developing our Living Well in Mid Cornwall guide, bringing together information about local groups, activities, charities and services across St Austell, Fowey, Lostwithiel, Bodmin, Wadebridge and surrounding communities.

Connect and Conquer was a brilliant reminder of just how much is happening locally.

Thank you again to Sophie Hulbert, Rob Harrison and everyone who shared their knowledge and enthusiasm. We came away with plenty of ideas, new contacts and some wonderful organisations to recommend to our clients and their families.

Do You Run a Local Group or Community Activity?

We’re always keen to hear about local groups, charities and activities that help older people and those living with health conditions stay active, connected and independent.

If you organise something in Mid Cornwall that could benefit the people we support, we’d love to hear from you and consider including it in our Living Well guide.

Please email Patrick Hughes at patrick.hughes@homeinstead.co.uk.

Together, we can help more people discover the wonderful support and activities available on their doorstep.