First Steps programme

This programme is for you if: 

• you’re looking for ways to make sense of your diagnosis 
• you don’t know what information and support is available to you 
• you feel ready to meet other people who have also been recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and their family, friends and supporters. 

You’ll take part from the comfort of your own home, joining a small group of 12 other people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Some people take part with a family member, friend or supporter, while others join alone. You’ll be able to ask questions, share your experiences and connect with people who are at a similar stage in their Parkinson’s journey.

Hosted by volunteers who have Parkinson’s, the programme spans 3 x 2.5-hour sessions on Zoom. Sessions 1 and 2 take place over 1 week, and session 3 takes place 4 weeks later. We’ll have regular breaks throughout each session.

To take part, you will need access to a device with a webcam and a reliable internet connection. If you’re not feeling confident using Zoom, we offer support in how to get started and use the key features.

Session 1: 

• making sense of your diagnosis
• facts about Parkinson's
• the healthcare professionals that can help you to manage your Parkinson’s.

Session 2: 

• the information and support that’s available to you
• the practical things you need to know, such as employment, driving and prescriptions
• the importance of physical activity in managing your Parkinson's.

Session 3, which follows up 4 weeks later:

• check in and catch up 
• 2 separate group discussions: one for people living with Parkinson’s and another for family, friends and carers
• tips for coping on difficult days, and the support options available to you and your family, friends and supporters.

People tell us that after they take part they feel: 

• less alone after meeting other people in a similar situation
• more positive and confident in moving forward
• informed of the information and support available.

Here's what some people have told us:

“I feel more optimistic about my diagnosis now. It's really helped me to accept that I have Parkinson's.

"I feel more informed and not so alone" 

"I would definitely recommend this programme to newly diagnosed people. The information you receive is fantastic and very helpful."