Major drive to raise awareness of Parkinson's UK

3 September 2012

We are targeting thousands of GP surgeries and clinics throughout the UK to raise awareness of the information and support Parkinson's UK can offer.

This is the launch of our major drive to help to improve access to this information and support for people with Parkinson's, particularly those who are newly diagnosed.

Research has confirmed our fears that many newly diagnosed people are not being told about the help on offer from us.

Laura Bowey, Head of Information and Support said:

"No-one should face Parkinson's alone but we are worried that thousands of people may be doing just that."

National campaign

The first phase of the awareness-raising campaign is being piloted through a roll-out of information packs, posters and materials to GP surgeries and clinics in a bid to reach patients, doctors and nurses.

Our leaflets will hit most major GP practices (those with 3 or more GPs) across the country and be displayed for 3 months from September to November.

Where is it happening?

The map (pictured right) gives an indication of some of the locations of the GP surgeries receiving our campaign materials.

• 1,000 GP waiting rooms will display Parkinson's UK posters
• 6,000 GP waiting rooms and 1,000 pharmacies will display leaflets
• 6,000 GP waiting rooms across the UK will be stocked with our information cards

Learning vital lessons

Distribution companies who regularly fill poster holders and leaflet racks in healthcare settings across the UK are being commissioned to ensure Parkinson's UK material is on public view.

Up to now local groups, volunteers and regional staff have put a lot of effort into circulating materials locally and it is important this continues alongside new activities.

Image right: Laura Bowey, Head of Information and Support (left) with Shilpa Fatania, carer (right)

However many have reported problems getting wall or notice board space in places like GP surgeries.

Laura Bowey, Head of Information and Support said:

"Local volunteers and staff do a fantastic job and can help us learn lessons about maintaining a good flow of information for individuals and families who may be isolated and need our help."

Special information packs for GPs and nurses

We are also distributing tailor-made information packs on education and training direct to GPs, nurses and other health and social care staff. The packs will brief them about the kind of information and support patients can expect from us.

It is hoped this will encourage many more professionals nationally to refer patients to us as soon as possible after diagnosis.

In the second phase of the campaign, our leaflet will also be in 1,000 pharmacies for 6 months.

'Like someone turning the light on'

Barbara Lee is a full time carer for her husband Richard, who has Parkinson's and dementia with lewy bodies.

"I couldn't help my husband when he needed my support the most because I didn't have the understanding of what was happening and how to deal with it.

"It would have made an enormous difference to have been told about Parkinson's UK earlier on. When I finally found out about Parkinson's UK, it was like someone turning the light on."

We'll keep you updated on the progress of the campaign over the next few months. If you come across our materials and you have any feedback, please email brand@parkinsons.org.uk.

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