Community groups in Shepton Mallet could benefit from new funding as Parkinson's UK reopens its Physical Activity Grants programme.

Now in its fifth year, the scheme has already provided almost £700,000 in funding to more than 200 activity providers and exercise professionals across the UK, helping them deliver free or low-cost classes for people living with Parkinson's.

Grants of up to £3,000 are available to local groups, clubs, physios, coaches and activity providers with a connection to the Parkinson's community. Applications close on Thursday 2 October.

Eligible activities include everything from walking football and dance to table tennis and seated yoga. Parkinson's UK says keeping active can improve strength, balance and coordination, reduce anxiety, and help people manage symptoms such as freezing and fatigue.

Last year, Yanar Alkayat from East London received more than £2,000 from the programme to deliver free seated yoga classes. She said: "The funding has truly made a difference to my work with the Parkinson's community. It has enabled me to expand my classes to new areas, reaching more people and providing much-needed movement sessions for free. Without this support from Parkinson's UK, these classes simply wouldn't have been possible."

Roma Hashim, Physical Activity Grants Manager at Parkinson's UK, said: "Following the success of our physical activity grants in 2024, we are delighted to be offering new funding for Parkinson's professionals, exercise coaches and local groups. We hope to work with even more activity providers and to create new national partnerships in the coming months, as we help more people enjoy an active lifestyle with the condition."

For more information or to apply, email [email protected]