Group could be forced to close

A ‘lifeline’ Stamford support group for people with Parkinson’s disease could be forced to close unless new volunteers come forward.

Elizabeth Knowles is stepping down as leader of the Stamford Parkinson’s Support Group after 11 years and Parkinson’s UK is looking for two new volunteers to lead the group.

Mrs Knowles, 74, and from Ketton, said: “We run a support group for people in the Stamford area with Parkinson’s and I have been running this group apart from a short break, since 2007.

“We’re looking for two volunteers - one to run the group and one as a deputy.

“We just meet once a month and it gives people an opportunity to get together.

“We have interesting speakers about all kinds of things and try to keep it light-hearted and fun.

“I would be very sad and disappointed if the group was forced to close.”

Mrs Knowles said the ideal volunteers needed to lead the group would have to have good organisation and computer skills.

Stamford Parkinson’s Support Group, which has 25 members, also provides vital peer support, information and activities for those people suffering with the disease in the area.

Mrs Knowles said the group also carries out fundraising and donates around £2,000 each January to Parkinson’s UK.

Lorraine Ray, volunteer coordinator at Parkinson’s UK, said: “This group is a lifeline for people in the local area who are living with Parkinson’s but unless new volunteers step forward, it could be forced to close, leaving local people without the support they need.

“If you can spare a few hours a month, please volunteer to join our charity and work with our Stamford group - because with your support we can really change lives.”

Stamford Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at St Mary and St Augustine’s Church Hall, Broad Street, between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

To apply for these roles, call Lorraine Ray on 03442 259850.