A CHARITY that supports people affected by Parkinson’s in Christchurch and the surrounding areas has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers.

The Parkinson’s UK Christchurch and District branch is urging people to get in touch if they can spare a few hours each month to ensure the group can continue to support people affected by the condition.

The branch has been running for 42 years and is in high demand, but could be forced to close as volunteer numbers fall.

It meets at St Catherine’s Hill each month and is looking for a branch chair, branch secretary and branch committee volunteers to keep the group operating.

These are flexible roles with a big impact, with volunteers helping to ensure people with Parkinson’s who live locally can access activities that make a real difference to them.

The chair role will act as the leader to shape the support, friendship and activities offered in the area, while the secretary position will be responsible for organising the committee and ensuring the group and its activities are running smoothly.

Committee volunteers are the heart and soul of the group, assisting with the general running of the branch and welcoming attendees with a friendly face and a cuppa.

There are also opportunities to get involved throughout the year with fundraising and other events. After initial onboarding there will be ongoing training and support provided.

Josie Taylor, network support officer for Parkinson’s UK, said: “Activities provided by local groups are a lifeline for people in the local area who are living with Parkinson’s, but unless new volunteers step forward people could be left without the support they need.

“If you can spare anything from a few hours a month we’d love to welcome you to volunteer alongside the amazing people who are part of the group – because with your support we really can change lives.

“As well as making a big difference to people living with Parkinson’s in your local community, volunteering is a great opportunity to try something new, have new experiences, and meet new people. Join us today.”

Around 153,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, including approximately 4,014 across Dorset and Wiltshire.

Parkinson’s UK has a mission to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s through pioneering research, information, support and campaigning.

The Christchurch and District support group meets on the fourth Monday of each month from 2pm until 4pm at St Catherine’s Hill Community Hall, in Marlow Drive, Christchurch.

See parkinsons.org.uk for more information about Parkinson’s UK support groups.

For further details about the volunteer vacancies for the Christchurch and District Branch, contact Josie Taylor on 0344 225 3744 or email jltaylor@parkinsons.org.uk.