Expanding the Neurogym for Parkinson's Centre

Aim: We are expanding the neurogym at the Parkinson’s Centre for Integrated Therapy, University of Kent, to reach more people with Parkinson’s.

At the University of Kent, we are tackling Parkinson’s head-on through the Parkinson’s Centre for Integrated Therapy (PCIT) — a pioneering hub for treatment, research and support. Our mission is simple: to help people with Parkinson’s take control of their condition, stay independent and live life to the fullest.

One of the ways we do this is through our neurogym — a dedicated space offering tailored exercise therapy proven to reduce symptoms, enhance mobility and improve quality of life. Now, we need your help to grow this essential service.

What we're crowdfunding for

We’re raising £15,000 to expand our neurogym and purchase specialised equipment designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s. This will allow us to provide more targeted, inclusive support to individuals at every stage of the condition.

Your support will help us buy:

•    A treadmill with hoist

•    A wheelchair stepper

•    A spin bike

•    A standing frame

•    Agility ladders, weights and kettlebells

This new equipment will make our neurogym more inclusive, accessible and effective — helping more people live better, for longer.

Why we need your support now

We are excited to share that Sport England has offered us a generous grant of £7,500 to help expand the neurogym. However, this funding is conditional on us raising an equal amount through crowdfunding, supported by at least 25 unique donors. This challenge means your support is more important than ever — every contribution helps us unlock this vital match and bring our vision to life.

Why this matters

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world. In the UK alone, an estimated 145,000 people are living with Parkinson’s, including around 4,000 in Kent. As our population ages, these numbers will only increase.

People with Parkinson’s often face:

• Declining mobility and strength
• Increased risk of falls
• Difficulty accessing conventional gyms due to a lack of suitable equipment and support

Exercise is one of the most effective tools we have for managing these symptoms — improving motor function, reducing rigidity and even slowing disease progression. But access to tailored, safe and supportive exercise environments remains limited.

That’s where the neurogym comes in.

How you can help make this happen

There are four easy ways you can support the expansion of our neurogym and help people with Parkinson’s live better for longer:

• Make a donation

Every gift, large or small, brings us closer to our goal. If you’re thinking of giving, don’t wait—early momentum is vital!

• Share our story

Tell your friends, family and networks about our campaign. The more people who hear about us, the more people we can help.

• Offer a reward

Are you a local business? Could you donate a product or service for us to offer supporters? We’d love to feature you in return.

• Start a fundraiser

Got a creative idea to raise funds? From bake sales to bike rides, we’d love to hear from you! Hit ‘Contact project’ to get started.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 28th August 2025 at 10:28am