Living with Parkinson’s can lead to reduced mobility, loss of confidence, social isolation and poor mental health. Many people living with long-term neurological conditions face significant barriers to participation in physical activity, including cost, accessibility and confidence.

Without regular opportunities to move, connect and engage creatively, participants reported an increased risk of depression, physical deterioration and withdrawal from their community.

With support from NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, Perth Theatre & Concert Hall delivered weekly Dance for Parkinson’s classes, remaining free of charge to ensure no financial barriers.

The programme aimed to:

• Increase social connection for people living with Parkinson’s and their carers

• Improve posture, balance, coordination, confidence and endurance

• Support mental wellbeing through music, creativity and shared experience

• Reach people living with Parkinson’s through NHS and third-sector networks

Classes were carefully tailored to suit varying abilities, with skilled teachers, live music and volunteers providing support throughout each session.

During the year, 21 unique participants attended 37 sessions, many describing the class as essential to their wellbeing.

Social connection

For 70% of participants, this class was one of only one or two times they left the house each week.

Participants shared:

“There are no other activities I can manage to do apart from these classes.”

“Meeting with other people with Parkinson’s and dancing together is special.”

“I’ve made friends I wouldn’t otherwise have met.”

The programme created a close-knit, supportive community for both participants and carers, reducing isolation and strengthening emotional resilience.

Physical and mental wellbeing

Through repetitive, adaptive movement, participants reported improvements in:

• Confidence in movement (average confidence rating: 9/10)

• Posture and mobility

• Strength, coordination and endurance

• Mood and motivation

“Dancing makes it fun — we’re working without realising it.”

“I didn’t feel up to coming today, but I made the effort and feel better as a result.”

What Changed

Participants consistently reported that without the classes they would experience:

• Increased depression and isolation

• Reduced mobility and physical decline

• Loss of routine, purpose and confidence

“I’d be lost without it.”

“Depression would set in — this is one of only two outings a week.”

“Life would be very dull if we didn’t have the class to look forward to.”

The project has helped participants maintain independence, dignity and quality of life while remaining active members of their community.

Sustainability & Learning

Dance for Parkinson’s has been running successfully since 2019 and is now a well-established, trusted programme. Participant feedback surveys were introduced this year, giving individuals the opportunity to share their experiences directly with funders and the organisation — a change that was warmly welcomed.

While the programme structure remains unchanged, the volunteer base has expanded, increasing resilience and long-term sustainability.